Compositions, devices and methods for control of pests using vapor activity

ABSTRACT

Devices and methods for the control of pests using the vapors of a pesticidal and/or pest control composition are disclosed. Compositions, devices and methods for the selective control of pests while not harming one or more beneficial insects are also disclosed. In some embodiments, the pests are bed bugs, fleas, lice, ticks, or the like. In some embodiments, the pests are  varroa  mites and the beneficial insects are honey bees.

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation in part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 15/037,513 filed May 18, 2016, which is a national phase entryof PCT International Application No. PCT/IB2014/066139 filed Nov. 18,2014, which claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Nos. 61/905,415; 61/911,434; 61/913,194; 61/918,641;61/941,049; and 62/008,425. Each of these applications is hereinincorporated by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Some embodiments of the present invention pertain to compositions,substrates and/or devices that can be used to control a variety ofpests. Some embodiments of the present invention can be used to controlarthropods, including for example, bed bugs, varroa mites, granaryweevils, and/or other pests. Some embodiments of the present inventionare compositions, substrates or devices that release vapors havingpesticidal or pest control active and/or pest control and/or planthealth activity. Some embodiments of the present invention pertain tocompositions, methods or apparatus for selectively controlling anundesirable target pest, including an arthropod, while not harming orharming to a lesser extent than the undesirable pest a desirableorganism, including an arthropod. In some embodiments, the compositions,methods or apparatus are used to control household pests, to controlparasitic infestations, and/or to treat foodstuffs and the like.

BACKGROUND

Pest control remains an ongoing, worldwide problem. Lack of effectivepesticides and/or effective methods of applying them has resulted innearly epidemic growth of some pests. There is consistently increasingdemand for safe, naturally-derived, effective pest control solutions toaddress these issues.

There are several problems with existing products. Conventional chemicalpesticides are toxic or do not work well enough. Many insects havedeveloped high levels of resistance to common conventional pesticides.Many conventional pesticides are being limited or phased out bygovernments. This has prompted a search for natural solutions, buttraditional botanical biochemicals can be inconsistent, unstable, hardto deliver and only work on contact.

One particular challenge in controlling pests such as bed bugs and otherarthropods is that the pests may harbor in areas that are difficult totreat or susceptible to damage by conventional liquid spray products andmethods. For example, bed bugs are known to hide in any available cracksand crevices, including within books, electronics, frames, seams, etc.,that cannot be effectively or safely treated by conventional sprays ordusts. These conventional pesticide products typically require directcontact between the pest and the pesticide in its solid or liquid formin order to be effective.

Examples of pests include all life-stages of insects of the ordersHemiptera, Blattodea, Hymenoptera, Siphonaptera, Coleoptera,Lepidoptera, Diptera, Thysanura, Psocoptera, Dermaptera, OrthopteraThysanoptera, including pests that impact human health such as bed bugs(Cimex lectularius), kissing bugs (Triatoma spp., Paratriatoma spp.),cockroaches (Blattella spp., Periplaneta spp., Blatta spp., Supellaspp.), ants (family Formicidae), and fleas (Ctenocephalides spp. Pulexspp., Xenopsylla spp.), as well as insect pests that invade humanstructures such as beetles (Sitophilus spp., Dermestes spp., Attagenusspp., Anthrenus spp., Trogoderma spp., Tenebrio spp.), moths (Tineapellinella, Tineola bissellilella, Plodia spp.), flies

(Drosophila spp., Calliphora spp., Phaenicia spp., Pollenia spp., Muscaspp., Sarcophaga spp., Wohlfahrtia vigil, Psychoda spp., Telmatoscopusalbipunctatus, Dohrniphora cornuta, Megaselia scalaris, familySciaridae, family Mycetophilidae), stink bugs (Boisea trivattata),silverfish (Lepisma saccharina, Ctenolepisma longicaudata), firebrats(Thermobia domestica), booklice (Lachesilla pedicularia, Liposcscelisspp.), earwigs (Forficula auricularia, Emorellia annulipes, Labidurariparia), crickets (Acheta donesticus, Gryllus spp.), and the like.Examples of non-insect arthropod pests include all life stages of humanbody lice (Pediculus humanus, Pediculus humanus capitus, Pthirus pubis),ticks (Family Ixodidae), chiggers (Family Tromiculidae), human &vertebrate mites (Sarcoptes scabies, Ornithonyssus spp., Dermanyssusgallinae, Pyemotes tritici, invertebrate mites (Varroa destructor), andthe like. Pests also include pests that can infest stored products(including for example foodstuffs), including almond moth (Cadracautella), Angoumois grain moth (Sitotroga cerealella), carpet beetle(Dermestes maculatus), Cadelle (Tenebroides mauritanicus), cigarettebeetle (Lasioderma serricorne), coffee bean weevil (Araecerusfasciculatus), confused flour beetle (Tribolium confusum), cowpea weevil(Callosobruchus maculatus), drugstore beetle (Stegobium paniceum),European grain moth (Nemopogon granella), flat grain beetle(Cryptolestes pusillus), grain mite (Acarus siro), granary weevil(Sitophilus granarius), Indian meal moth (Plodia interpunctella), Khaprabeetle (Trogoderma granarium), larder beetle (Dermestes lardarius),lesser grain borer (Rhyzopertha dominica), maize weevil (Sitophiluszeamais), mealworm (Tenebrio molitor), Mediterranean flour moth(Anagasta kuehniella), merchant grain beetle (Oryzaephilus mercator),red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum), rice moth (Corcyra cephalonica),rice weevil (Sitophilus oryzae), rusty grain beetle (Cryptolestesferrugineus), sawtooth grain beetle (Oryzaephilus surinamensis),warehouse beetle (Trogoderma variable), and the like.

Another problem in controlling pests is that, while there are pests thatare arthropods, there are also a number of beneficial species that arealso arthropods. It may be desirable to control pest species ofarthropods, while not harming, or at least harming to a lesser extent, abeneficial species of arthropod. One example of such a problem needingto be addressed is varroa mite infestations of honey bee colonies.Varroa mites are an external parasitic mite that attach to and feed onhoney bees and are believed to be the largest contributing factor in thepresent decline of honey bee populations. A significant mite infestationmay be a contributing factor to colony collapse disorder (CCD) and canlead to the death of a honey bee colony. This has a major economicimpact on the beekeeping industry as well as a serious environmentalimpact due to the beneficial role bees play in the ecosystem. Varroamites are smaller in size (i.e. have a lower mass) than honey bees.There is a need for compositions, methods and apparatus that can be usedto control varroa mites without significantly harming honey bees.

Varroa mites are arthropods that are members of the Class Arachnida,Subclass Acari, Family Varroidae, Genus Varroa, Species destructor.Honey bees are also arthropods that are members of the Class Insecta,Order Hymenoptera, Family Apidae, Genus Apis, Species mellifera. Varroamites are smaller in size (i.e. have a lower mass) than honey bees.There is a need for compositions, methods and apparatus that can be usedto control varroa mites without significantly harming honey bees. Thereare existing treatments for treating varroa mites in honey bee colonies(Apistan™ strips (Tau-fluvalinate) and Mite-Away Quick Strips™ (formicacid)). However, formic acid vapour is very corrosive, and specialhandling precautions must be used when formic-acid based treatmentsused. Apistan™ strips have relatively high contact toxicity for humans,and therefore require the use of gloves and protective clothing whenbeing handled. Furthermore, residues from Apistan™ strips can accumulatein wax, and some Varroa mite populations have developed resistance toits active ingredient.

Existing products that use vapors to treat pests typically have hightoxicity. Vapona™ or Nuvan™ strips (dichlorvos or DDVP) are too toxic touse in bee hives, and when used to treat bed bugs and other pests,exposure to vapour or liquid risk acute and chronic toxicity to humans.

There is a need for improved pest control products and methods thatutilize vapor action to effectively and safely treat pests in a mannerthat addresses the drawbacks of existing treatments. Vapors have theadvantage of dispersing evenly throughout a given volume of space,including penetrating into small and hidden spaces that would bedifficult or impossible to reach otherwise. Vapors allow the maximum andmost even penetration within a volume of space of a given mass of apesticide. Gas phase vapors also have the advantage of not adverselyaffecting many types of materials such as electronics, books, or othervaluable items, that can be damaged by application of a liquid (e.g.short-circuiting, warping, staining, etc.), or adversely affecting suchmaterials to a lesser extent than a liquid.

One disadvantage of some pesticidal or pest control active compounds,including botanical oils such as neem oil for example, is that they havelow volatility and do not release effective quantities of pesticidal orpest control active vapors. There remains a need for compositions andmethods that improve the volatilization of pesticidal or pest controlactive compounds and/or otherwise allow for the release of vapors havingeffective pesticidal or pest control active activity.

Potential references of interest include the following, each of which isincorporated by reference herein:

WO 2013/050967.

Thompson H M, Brown M A, Ball R F, Bew M H (2002). First report ofVarroa destructor resistance to pyrethroids in the UK”. Apidologie 33(4): 357-366. doi:10.1051/apido:2002027.

Guzman-Novoa E, Eccles L, Calvete Y, Mcgowan J, Kelly P G &Correa-Benitez A (2009) Varroa destructor is the main culprit for thedeath and reduced populations of overwintered honey bee (Apis mellifera)colonies in Ontario, Canada. Apidologie 41 (4): 443-450.doi:10.1051/apido/2009076.

Melathopoulos A P, Winston M L, Whittington W R, Higo H, Le Doux M(2000). Field evalustion of neem and canola oil for the selectivecontrol of the honey bee (Hymenoptera: Apidae) mite parsites Varroajacobsoni (Acari: Varroidae) and Acarapis woodi (Acari: Tarsonemidae).Journal of Economic Entomology 93: 559-567.

The foregoing examples of the related art and limitations relatedthereto are intended to be illustrative and not exclusive. Otherlimitations of the related art will become apparent to those of skill inthe art upon a reading of the specification and a study of the drawings.

SUMMARY

The following embodiments and aspects thereof are described andillustrated in conjunction with systems, tools and methods which aremeant to be exemplary and illustrative, not limiting in scope. Invarious embodiments, one or more of the above-described problems havebeen reduced or eliminated, while other embodiments are directed toother improvements.

Devices and methods are provided for controlling pests using pesticidalor pest control active vapors. The pests can be terrestrial arthropods,including subterranean arthropods. In some embodiments, an arthropodpest is controlled while a beneficial species, which can also be anarthropod, is not harmed, or is harmed to a lesser extent, by thepesticidal or pest control active vapors. In some such embodiments, thepest is varroa mites and the beneficial species is honey bees.

In some embodiments, pesticidal or pest control active vapors arereleased from a substrate impregnated with a pesticidal or pest controlactive composition, from a gel comprising a pesticidal or pest controlactive composition, and/or from a device for releasing pesticidal orpest control active vapors, including from a liquid pesticidal or pestcontrol active composition.

In some embodiments, the device has a housing with a reservoir forcontaining a pesticidal or pest control active composition, and amechanism for releasing vapors of the pesticidal or pest control activecomposition. In some embodiments, the device is or has a substrateimpregnated with a pesticidal or pest control active composition. Thesubstrate can be a naturally occurring polymer or a synthetic polymer.In some embodiments, the substrate is cotton, paper, or a porous plasticmade from polyethylene or polyester fibres, and may optionally comprisemultiple layers thereof. In some embodiments, the release of vapors bythe device is enhanced by an active release mechanism. In someembodiments, an indicator is provided to provide a visual indication ofthe amount of pesticidal or pest control active composition remaining inthe device.

In some embodiments, a source of pesticidal or pest control activevapors is placed in a treatment enclosure containing pests or articlesinfested or thought to be infested with pests. In some embodiments, thesource of pesticidal or pest control active vapors is integrated with orprovided as an integral component of the treatment enclosure. In someembodiments, the source of pesticidal or pest control active vapors isenclosed within the treatment enclosure for a period of time sufficientto control pests within the treatment enclosure. In some embodiments,the supply of pesticidal or pest control active composition to thesubstrate is periodically or continuously replenished to continueproduction of pesticidal or pest control active vapors over a period oftime, for example by pumping additional pesticidal or pest controlactive composition to the substrate. In some embodiments, the pesticidalor pest control active composition is supplied to a device for releasingpesticidal or pest control active vapors as a self-contained puck, andthe puck is periodically exchanged for a fresh puck.

In some embodiments of the present invention, one or more ornamentaldesigns for a pesticidal or pest control device are providedillustrating elements of at least one of form, ornamentation and/orshading as relate to several embodiments incorporating such ornamentaldesigns, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

In some further embodiments of the present invention, pesticidal or pestcontrol active materials may desirably further comprise one or moreplant health active compound, such as may be used to enhance or treat aplant health condition of a plant, or to stimulate an immune, metabolic,genetic or other mechanism or systemic function of one or more plants soas to improve, stimulate, enhance, strengthen, or otherwise influenceplant health characteristics of a plant, for example.

In addition to the exemplary aspects and embodiments described above,further aspects and embodiments will become apparent by reference to thedrawings and by study of the following detailed descriptions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Exemplary embodiments are illustrated in referenced figures of thedrawings. It is intended that the embodiments and figures disclosedherein are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive.

FIG. 1 shows an impregnated substrate with an impermeable backing inaccordance with one example embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 shows an impregnated substrate with an adhesive backing inaccordance with an example embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 shows a package of impermeable substrates with a resealableclosure in accordance with an example embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 abc show passive versions of devices with a permeable membrane(FIG. 4a ), a non-adjustable venting method (FIG. 4b ) and an adjustableventing method (FIG. 4c ) in accordance with some example embodiments ofthe invention.

FIG. 5 abc show non-passive versions of devices with a permeablemembrane (FIG. 5a ), a non-adjustable venting method (FIG. 5b ) and anadjustable venting method (FIG. 5c ) in accordance with some exampleembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a non-passive devicewith a view of the interior components and a refilling port inaccordance with an example embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a non-passive devicewith a wick, diffuser or permeable membrane at least partiallysurrounding the reservoir in accordance with an example embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a non-passive devicewith a means to alter surface tension in accordance with an exampleembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 abc are schematic drawings showing non-passive versions ofdevices with a viewing window (FIG. 9a ), a float (FIG. 9b ) and aco-evaporating/color changing substrate (FIG. 9c ) in accordance withexample embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 10 shows a non-passive device with a monitoring and/orself-regulating component in accordance with an example embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 11 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a non-passive deviceemploying an activation agent in accordance with an example embodimentof the invention.

FIGS. 12a, 12b, 12c and 12d illustrate schematically a pillow-packagedsubstrate according to some exemplary embodiments. FIG. 12a shows theimpregnated substrate in a sealed package that is openable by a user torelease pesticidal or pest control active vapors, although the substrateand package are separately illustrated for clarity. FIG. 12b shows theimpregnated substrate in a sealed package with vent apertures covered bya peel strip. FIG. 12c shows the impregnated substrate in a sealedpackage with a venting window covered by a peel strip. FIG. 12d showsthe impregnated substrate in a sealed package with a rigid resealableclosure covering vent apertures.

FIG. 13 shows schematically a pesticidal or pest control activecomposition in an enclosed space with target pests in accordance with anexample embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14a shows schematically a bag with integrated pesticide-impregnatedsubstrate according to one example embodiment. FIG. 14b showsschematically an example embodiment of a multi-layer bag with apesticidal or pest control active composition impregnated substratemembrane. FIG. 14c shows an example embodiment of a reusable treatmentenclosure with an external enclosure for receiving a source ofpesticidal or pest control active vapors. FIG. 14d shows an exampleembodiment of a single layer bag with a pesticidal or pest controlactive composition impregnated therein.

FIG. 15 shows a schematic diagram of a Langstroth bee hive that providesa treatment enclosure in one example embodiment.

FIG. 16 shows an example placement of a generally flat substrateimpregnated with a pesticidal or pest control active composition onframes within a Langstroth bee hive in one example embodiment.

FIG. 17 shows the percent mortality of bed bug eggs exposed to vaporsfrom filter paper treated with 260 ft²/gal (1.39% (v/v)) Solution A (0hour dry time) for 1, 5, 15, 30, 60 minutes, 4 hours, or 24 hours.Control eggs (untreated) were not exposed to Solution A vapors.

FIG. 18 shows the percent mortality of bed bug adults and eggs afterexposure to 0.037% or 0.074% v/v Solution C vapors inside sealed 158 L(42 gallon) garbage bags filled with hard-cover and soft-cover books(mass-remaining of Solution C after 5 day exposure is also shown).

FIG. 19 shows the percent mortality of bed bug adults and eggs afterexposure to 0.037% v/v Solution C vapors inside sealed 158 L (42 gallon)garbage bags filled with hard-cover and soft-cover books, footwear &handbags, or electronics (mass-remaining of Solution C after 5 dayexposure is also shown).

FIG. 20 is a photograph illustrating how the absorbent pad was drapedover the suit (left image) and how the suit and pad were sealed inside asuit bag (right image).

FIG. 21 shows the percent mortality of adult bed bugs exposed to vaporsemitted from 30 ml (=0.043% v/v) or 60 ml (=0.086% v/v) of liquidSolution C for 24 hours inside a sealed suit-bag.

FIG. 22 shows the mortality of German cockroaches, Dermestid beetlelarvae, pavement ants, granary weevils and earwigs after exposure tovapors emitted by 60 ml Solution C(=0.037% v/v) inside a sealed plasticbag (n=20 insects of each species per treatment, 5 insects per bag).

FIG. 23 shows the relative isopropyl alcohol vapor concentration (asdetermined by peak area) when 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, or 4 ounces (7.5, 15, 30,60 or 120 mL) (=0.0046%, 0.009%, 0.019%, 0.037% and 0.07% v/v) ofSolution C is poured onto an absorbent cellulose pad and sealed insidean empty 158 L (42 gallon) plastic bag (n=3 bags per volume of SolutionC tested).

FIG. 24 shows relative isopropyl alcohol vapor concentration (asdetermined by peak area) when 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, or 4 ounces (7.5, 15, 30,60 or 120 mL) (=0.0046%, 0.009%, 0.019%, 0.037% and 0.07% v/v) ofSolution C is poured onto an absorbent cellulose pad and sealed inside a158 liter plastic bag filled with books (n=3 bags per volume of SolutionC tested).

FIG. 25 shows mean mortality of adult bed bugs and bed bug eggs after5-day exposure to various vapor concentrations emitted by 0.25, 0.5, 1,2, or 4 ounces (7.5, 15, 30, 60 or 120 mL) (=0.0046%, 0.009%, 0.019%,0.037% and 0.07% v/v) of Solution C inside a sealed 158 L (42 gallon)plastic bag (n=5 bugs per bag; 3 bags per concentration tested).Solution C vapor concentrations are displayed as relative isopropylalcohol vapor concentration (determined by HPLC peak areas analyzed fromsamples of each bag's head-space). Lines above and below data pointsindicate standard error of mortality of adult bugs and eggs.

FIG. 26 shows mean mortality of granary weevils, Sitophilus granarius,within jars of grain, after exposure to vapors emitted by 0, 0.025,0.05, 0.075, 0.1, or 0.25 ounces (0.75 mL, 1.5 mL, 2.25 mL, 3 mL, or 7.5mL) (=0.0046%, 0.009%, 0.019%, 0.037% and 0.07% v/v) of Solution Cinside a sealed 158 L (42 gallon) plastic bag (n=20 weevils per jar, 4jars per treatment volume). Mortality observations were made after 3days exposure to vapors. Lines above and below data points indicatestandard error of mortality and asterisks indicate insect mortalityafter 24 h vapor-exposure that is significantly higher than controlmortality of the same species. (Chi-square test; *p<0.01; 1 d.f.).

FIG. 27 shows mortality of Varroa mites and honey bees exposed to 0,0.5, 2, 5, or 10 mL of Solution A evaporating from filter papers insidean empty 50400 cm³bin for 16 hours.

FIG. 28 shows mortality of varroa mites and honey bees exposed to 1 mLof Solution A evaporating from filter papers inside a 50400 cm³bin;either empty or containing three bee frames laden with wax, honey andbrood larvae.

FIG. 29 shows the mortality of phoretic mites in hives treated with 0ml, 50 ml, 100 ml or 150 ml of Solution B formulation (pre- andpost-treatment mortality shown).

FIG. 30 shows the percent mortality of phoretic mites on worker bees inhives as a result of treatment with 0 ml, 50 ml, 100 ml or 150 ml ofSolution C after 48 hours.

FIG. 31 shows the percent mortality of mites emerging from capped broodcells from hives after treatment with 0 ml, 50 ml, 100 ml or 150 ml ofSolution C. These values indicate the total mortality of brood cellmites within hives after exposure to each treatment.

FIG. 32 shows the average daily Varroa mite drop in bee hives observedfrom sticky boards for two weeks prior to treatments (mite drop 1 weekprior to treatment shown), 8 days during vapor treatment, and for threeweeks following Amitraz clean-up treatment following treatment withSolution B, 65% formic acid, or water.

FIG. 33 shows total Varroa mite mortality (mortality of phoretic andbrood-cell mites, expressed as % of total mite load) observed fromsticky boards during vapor treatment, and following Amitraz clean-uptreatment. Mites were counted and mite-boards were replaced in each hiveevery 2-5 days (n=4 hives per treatment).

FIG. 34 shows Varroa mite mortality expressed as a percentage of totalmite load resulting from treatment with Solution B, 65% formic acid, orwater for 8 days or treatment with Amitraz. Identical letters above barsindicate mite mortality which was not statistically different (t-test,p<0.05, n=8000-11000 mites per treatment).

FIG. 35 shows the percent mortality of manually uncapped bee pupae 1week after treatment with vapors from 100 mL of Solution B, 30 mL of 65%formic acid, or 100 mL of H₂O.

FIG. 36 shows the percent emergence of 10 day-old, capped bee pupae 1month after treatment with vapors from 100 mL of Solution B, 30 mL of65% formic acid, or 100 mL of H₂O.

FIG. 37 shows a top view of a pillow-packaged substrate treatment paddevice, showing a protective peel-off strip sealing over one or morevapour release apertures, and enclosing a substrate adapted forabsorption of a pesticidal or pest control active formulation, accordingto an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 38 shows a top view of a pillow-packaged substrate treatment paddevice after opening by removing a protective peel-off strip, showing anexemplary pattern of vapour release apertures, and enclosing a substrateadapted for absorption of a pesticidal or pest control activeformulation for release of pesticidal or pest control active vaporsthrough the apertures, according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 39 shows a top view of an alternative pillow-packaged substratetreatment pad device, showing visual elements and an instructive indiciafor opening of a protective peel-off strip sealing over one or morevapour release apertures, for enclosing a substrate adapted forabsorption of a pesticidal or pest control active formulation, accordingto an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 40 shows a top view of a pillow-packaged substrate treatment paddevice, showing visual elements and an instructive indicia for openingof a top protective peel-off strip sealing over one or more vapourrelease apertures, and enclosing a substrate adapted for absorption of apesticidal or pest control active formulation, according to anembodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 41 shows a top view of the pillow-packaged substrate treatment paddevice shown in FIG. 40, showing the top protective peel-off strippartially removed to show one or more vapour release apertures, andenclosing a substrate adapted for absorption of a pesticidal or pestcontrol active formulation and for release of pesticidal or pest controlactive vapors through the apertures, according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 42 shows a top view of a pillow-packaged substrate treatment paddevice after opening by removing a protective peel-off strip, showing apattern of vapour release apertures, and enclosing a substrate adaptedfor absorption of a pesticidal or pest control active formulation forrelease of pesticidal or pest control active vapors through theapertures, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 43 shows a perspective view of a pillow-packaged substratetreatment pad device, showing the side and top of the pad after openingby removing a protective peel-off strip, showing a pattern of vapourrelease apertures, and enclosing a substrate adapted for absorption of apesticidal or pest control active formulation for release of pesticidalor pest control active vapors through the apertures, according to anembodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 44 shows a side view of a pillow-packaged substrate treatment paddevice after opening by removing a protective peel-off strip, showing apattern of vapour release apertures, and enclosing a substrate adaptedfor absorption of a pesticidal or pest control active formulation forrelease of pesticidal or pest control active vapors through theapertures, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 45 shows a bottom view of a pillow-packaged substrate treatment paddevice, adapted for enclosing a substrate adapted for absorption of apesticidal or pest control active formulation, according to anembodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 46 shows a top view of an alternative pillow-packaged substratetreatment pad device, showing visual elements and an instructive indiciafor opening of a top protective peel-off strip sealing over one or morevapour release apertures, and enclosing a substrate adapted forabsorption of a pesticidal or pest control active formulation, accordingto an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DESCRIPTION

Throughout the following description specific details are set forth inorder to provide a more thorough understanding to persons skilled in theart. However, well known elements may not have been shown or describedin detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the disclosure. Accordingly,the description and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative,rather than a restrictive, sense.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art to which this invention belongs.

As used herein, singular forms include plural references unless thecontext clearly dictates otherwise. As used herein, “comprises” or“comprising” are to be interpreted in their open-ended sense, i.e. asspecifying that the stated features, elements, steps or componentsreferred to are present, but not excluding the presence or addition offurther features, elements, steps or components.

As used herein, the term “pest” refers to organisms that negativelyaffect a host or other organism—such as a plant or an animal such as amammal—by colonizing, damaging, attacking, competing with them fornutrients, or infecting them, as well as undesired organisms that infesthuman structures, dwellings, living spaces or foodstuffs. Pests caninclude arthropods, including insects, arachnids and cockroaches, andincludes sucking, biting and stinging pests such as bed bugs, kissingbugs, mites, ticks, ants, lice, fleas, chiggers, biting flies,mosquitoes, and wasps, as well as insects that infest stored productssuch as moths, mites and weevils. Pests can further comprise any otherorganism which may negatively affect a host organism, such as but notlimited to fungi, bacteria, viruses, molluscs, acari, nematodes andprotozoa, for example.

Exemplary pests against which some embodiments can be used includeterrestrial arthropods (including subterranean arthropods), includingall life-stages of insects of the orders Hemiptera, Blattodea,Hymenoptera, Siphonaptera, Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Diptera, Thysanura,Psocoptera, Dermaptera, Orthoptera Thysanoptera, including pests thatimpact human health such as bed bugs (Cimex lectularius), kissing bugs(Triatoma spp., Paratriatoma spp.), cockroaches (Blattella spp.,Periplaneta spp., Blatta spp., Supella spp.), ants (family Formicidae),and fleas (Ctenocephalides spp. Pulex spp., Xenopsylla spp.), as well asinsect pests that invade human structures such as beetles (Sitophilusspp., Dermestes spp., Attagenus spp., Anthrenus spp., Trogoderma spp.,Tenebrio spp.), moths (Tinea pellinella, Tineola bissellilella, Plodiaspp.), flies (Drosophila spp., Calliphora spp., Phaenicia spp., Polleniaspp., Musca spp., Sarcophaga spp., Wohlfahrtia vigil, Psychoda spp.,Telmatoscopus albipunctatus, Dohrniphora cornuta, Megaselia scalaris,family Sciaridae, family Mycetophilidae), stink bugs (Boiseatrivattata), silverfish (Lepisma saccharina, Ctenolepisma longicaudata),firebrats (Thermobia domestica), booklice (Lachesilla pedicularia,Liposcscelis spp.), earwigs (Forficula auricularia, Emorellia annulipes,Labidura riparia), crickets (Acheta donesticus, Gryllus spp.), and thelike. Examples of non-insect arthropod pests include all life stages ofhuman body lice (Pediculus humanus, Pediculus humanus capitus, Pthiruspubis), ticks (Family Ixodidae), chiggers (Family Tromiculidae), human &vertebrate mites (Sarcoptes scabies, Ornithonyssus spp., Dermanyssusgallinae, Pyemotes tritici, invertebrate mites (Varroa destructor), andthe like. Pests also include pests that can infest stored products,including almond moth (Cadra cautella), Angoumois grain moth (Sitotrogacerealella), carpet beetle (Dermestes maculatus), Cadelle (Tenebroidesmauritanicus), cigarette beetle (Lasioderma serricorne), coffee beanweevil (Araecerus fasciculatus), confused flour beetle (Triboliumconfusum), cowpea weevil (Callosobruchus maculatus), drugstore beetle(Stegobium paniceum), European grain moth (Nemopogon granella), flatgrain beetle (Cryptolestes pusillus), grain mite (Acarus siro), granaryweevil (Sitophilus granarius), Indian meal moth (Plodia interpunctella),Khapra beetle (Trogoderma granarium), larder beetle (Dermesteslardarius), lesser grain borer (Rhyzopertha dominica), maize weevil(Sitophilus zeamais), mealworm (Tenebrio molitor), Mediterranean flourmoth (Anagasta kuehniella), merchant grain beetle (Oryzaephilusmercator), red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum), rice moth (Corcyracephalonica), rice weevil (Sitophilus oryzae), rusty grain beetle(Cryptolestes ferrugineus), sawtooth grain beetle (Oryzaephilussurinamensis), warehouse beetle (Trogoderma variable), and the like.

As used herein, the term “vapor” has the meaning as defined by theMerriam Webster dictionary, of a “substance that is in the form of a gasor that consists of very small drops or particles mixed with the air.”Examples of vapors include, without limitation, gases, aerosols, mist,smoke, steam, fog, fumes and fumigants.

As used herein, the term “substrate” refers to any substance thatcontains or is impregnated with a pesticidal or pest control activecomposition. The substrate provides a medium for absorbing a liquidpesticidal or pest control active composition and releasing vapors ofthe pesticidal or pest control active composition.

As used herein, the term “gel” refers to a solid or semi-solid materialhaving a substantially dilute cross-linked system, which exhibits noflow when in the steady-state.

As used herein, the term “liquid” refers to a substance that has adefinite volume but no fixed shape. The “viscosity” of a liquid refersto the resistance of a liquid to gradual deformation by shear stress ortensile stress. A liquid with a higher viscosity is a relatively thicker(slower flowing) liquid.

As used herein, the term “diffuse” or “diffusion” refers to thespreading out of a substance through a volume of space, generally fromregions of high concentration to regions of lower concentration.“Passive diffusion” refers to naturally occurring diffusion of a gas oraerosol unaided or influenced by application of an outside force,whereas “active diffusion” refers to diffusion that is aided orfacilitated or influenced by the application of an outside force, agentor device.

As used herein, the term “phoretic mites” means mites living on adultbees, outside of the brood cells where the bees matured.

As used herein, the terms “control” or “controlling” include, but arenot limited to, any killing, growth regulating, signaling orcommunication interruption, disruption or alteration, knockdown orpestistatic (inhibiting or otherwise interfering with the normal lifecycle of the pest) activities of a composition against a given pest.These terms include for example sterilizing activities which prevent theproduction of ova or sperm, cause death of sperm or ova, or otherwisecause severe injury to the genetic material. Further activities intendedto be encompassed within the scope of the terms “control” or“controlling” include preventing larvae from developing into matureprogeny, modulating the emergence of pests from eggs includingpreventing eclosion, degrading the egg material, suffocation, reducinggut motility, inhibiting the formation of chitin, disrupting mating orsexual communication, and preventing feeding (antifeedant) activity.“Knockdown” is the inability of an arthropod to make coordinatedmovement, which eliminates its ability to locate food, shelter and/orhost organisms.

Some embodiments of the present invention provide pesticidal or pestcontrol active compositions that release vapors (via evaporation,aerosolization, etc.) having effective pesticidal or pest control activeactivity against pests and their eggs. Some embodiments providesubstrates impregnated with a pesticidal or pest control activecomposition such that the substrate releases pesticidal or pest controlactive vapors over time. Some embodiments provide devices comprising aliquid or gelled pesticidal or pest control active composition or asubstrate impregnated with a pesticidal or pest control activecomposition, wherein the device actively or passively diffusespesticidal or pest control active vapors.

In some embodiments, the pesticidal or pest control active compositionis applied in liquid form to a substrate such that the substratecontains, absorbs or is impregnated with the pesticidal or pest controlactive composition and serves as a vehicle for release of the pesticidalor pest control active composition in vapor form. Examples of suchsubstrates include any kind of cloth, paper, textile, wipe, pad, sponge,mat, filter, honeycomb, or other porous or absorbent material. In somealternative embodiments, the substrate may comprise a container,ampoule, frangible reservoir, or other vessel or chamber which maycontain a pesticidal or pest control active composition, and is adaptedto release the composition in vapor form, such as by breaking,fracturing, tearing, crushing, bending, rupturing, puncturing,perforating or otherwise opening or venting the vessel or chamber so asto release the composition in vapor form, for example.

In some example embodiments, the substrate comprises a naturallyoccurring polymer, such as cellulose (for example in the form of cotton,paper, wood, wood pulp, or the like), wool, felt, chitin, silk or thelike. Natural plant fibers can also be ‘manufactured’ into an artificialmaterial where they are processed into pulp and then extruded likesynthetic fibers like polyethylene, polyester or nylon to produce anartificial fiber like rayon or viscose, and these materials can be usedas substrates in some example embodiments.

In some embodiments, the substrate is non-woven, for example, cottonbatting and filter paper are examples of non-woven cellulose substrates.In some embodiments, the substrate is woven, for example, cotton cloth,wool or silk are examples of a woven cellulose substrates.

As used herein, a “woven” substrate refers to a substrate formed byweaving or knitting fibers together. The fibers can be synthetic (e.g.polyester or polypropylene) or natural (e.g. plant-derived like pulp orcotton or animal derived like wool or silk).

As used herein, a “non-woven” substrate is a substrate that is notwoven. In some cases, naturally-occurring non-woven substrates will beproduced naturally or with some human processing, for example in thecase of cotton and paper. In some cases, fabric-like materials can bemade through processing techniques that do not result in the formationof a woven substrate, and hence are non-woven, for example, somefabric-like materials are made from long fibers bonded together bychemical, mechanical, heat or solvent treatments, for example felt.

In some example embodiments, the substrate is a synthetic polymer, suchas polyester, copolyester, cellulose acetate, olefins, nylon,modacrylate, polyphenylene sulfide, rayon, nylon, polypropylene,polyethylene, polybutylene terephthalate, polyurethanes, acrylicpolymers, latex, styrene/butadiene, a silicone, or the like. In someembodiments, the synthetic polymer is woven. In some embodiments, thesynthetic polymer is non-woven.

In some example embodiments, the substrate is a non-woven syntheticmaterial, such as polyester, copolyester, cellulose acetate, olefins,nylon, modacrylate, polyphenylene sulfide, viscose, rayon, or the like.In some example embodiments, the substrate is a woven synthetic polymer,for example, polyester, nylon, polypropylene, polyethylene, or the like.

In some embodiments, the synthetic material can be partly or fullybiodegradable.

In some embodiments, the substrate is a sponge. In some embodiments, thesponge is made from a synthetic material, for example, a foamed plasticpolymer, a low density polyether, polyvinyl acetate (PVA), silicone orpolyurethane foam, polyester, or the like. In some embodiments, thesponge is manufactured from a naturally occurring material such ascellulose, including cellulose obtained from wood.

In some embodiments, the substrate is a natural or manufacturedcellulose material. In some embodiments, the natural cellulose materialis in granular form, for example, corncob, wood, wood pulp, nut shells,chips, bark or the like.

In some embodiments, the substrate is a mineral, such as zeolite,diatomaceous earth, clay, sepiolite, bentonite clay, silica, silicate,silicon dioxide, or the like. In some embodiments, the mineral isprovided in granular form.

In some embodiments, the substrate is a carrier such as a wax, such asan animal wax (e.g. beeswax), a plant wax (e.g. carnuba wax), or apetroleum-based wax (e.g. paraffin wax).

In some embodiments, the substrate is porous. In some embodiments, thepores have an average diameter of from about 5 to about 500 micrometers,or any amount or range there between, for example from about 10 to about200, or from about 50 to about 150 micrometers, including any valuetherebetween, e.g. 25, 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400 or 450micrometers.

In some embodiments, the substrate is a porous plastic. In someembodiments, the porous plastic comprises polyethylene, polyethyleneterephthalate or polyester fibres. The fibres may be felted or glued, orfused to provide an open cell or porous structure that is non-woven.

The substrate should be selected to be compatible with the pesticidal orpest control active solution to be released, and should be mechanicallystrong to retain a porous structure and be resistant to degradation suchby an active ingredient, solvent, carrier or emulsifier and/or adjuvantcompound. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that anymaterial that provides appropriate gaps between the fibers for receivingand absorbing a pesticidal or pest control active composition can beused in some embodiments of the present invention, regardless of whetherthe material is woven or non-woven. The gaps are believed to provide aspace for receiving (i.e. absorbing) the liquid pesticidal or pestcontrol active composition, and the fibers are believed to assist withtransporting the liquid pesticidal or pest control active compositionthroughout the substrate to facilitate release of pesticidal or pestcontrol active vapors.

In some embodiments, the pesticide-impregnated substrate is replacedwith a gelled pesticidal or pest control active composition, i.e. apesticidal or pest control active composition which has been providedwith a solid or semi-solid gel consistency by the addition ofappropriate gelling agents.

In some embodiments, the pesticidal or pest control active compositionis formulated into a solid or gel that serves as a vehicle for releasingpesticidal or pest control active vapors. For example, alginate, agar orany other gelling or thickening agent may be used to gel an aqueoussolution containing a pesticidal or pest control active composition,including for example suitable polymers. The gel may comprise naturalgelling agents, or synthetic gelling agents, or a combination thereof.Examples of natural gelling agents include starches, agars, gums,pectin, proteins, collagen, gelatin, furcellaran, saccharides,hydrocolloids, and the like. Examples of synthetic gelling agentsinclude silicones, polyethylene glycol (PEG), polyvinyl alcohol, or thelike.

Addition of a gelling agent to an aqueous solution forms a weaklycohesive internal structure, to form a homogeneous gel (which may besolid or semi-solid, or creamy or pasty in some embodiments) from asolution of a pesticidal or pest control active composition. Pesticidalor pest control active vapors are then released from the gel.

In some embodiments, the pesticidal or pest control active compositionis absorbed or impregnated into a porous solid substrate or provided asa gel. In some embodiments, the solid substrate or gel compositionsassist with controlling the rate of release of pesticidal or pestcontrol active vapors. While the embodiments described below aredescribed with reference to the use of a substrate impregnated with apesticidal or pest control active composition or a liquid pesticidal orpest control active composition contained in some suitable manner, insome embodiments, the substrate or the liquid composition are replacedwith a pesticidal or pest control active composition in gel form.

In some embodiments, the substrate is adapted to provide a visualindication of the relative amount of pesticidal or pest control activecomposition remaining within the substrate. In some embodiments, thesubstrate changes dimensions (for example, by swelling or enlarging),when the pesticidal or pest control active composition is applied to thesubstrate. In some embodiments, the substrate changes dimensions (forexample, by shrinking), as the pesticidal or pest control activecomposition is released as a vapor from the substrate (for example, byevaporation). Thus, a visual inspection of the relative dimensions ofthe substrate can provide a visual indication of the relative amount ofpesticidal or pest control active composition remaining within thesubstrate.

In some embodiments, the substrate includes an indicator, dye, orco-evaporating colored substance, so that the color of the substratechanges and provides a visual indication of the absorption and releaseof pesticidal or pest control active composition from the substrate.

In some embodiments in which the carrier solvent for the pesticidal orpest control active composition comprises an alcohol, anoxidative-reductive approach can be used as an indicator to provide avisual indication of the absorption and release of pesticidal or pestcontrol active composition from the substrate. For example, chromic acidderivatives can be used for oxidizing primary and secondary alcohols,such as Jones reagent (a solution of sodium dichromate in aqueoussulfuric acid) and pyridinium chlorochromate, C₅H₅NH⁽⁺⁾CrO₃Cl⁽⁻⁾,commonly known as PCC. Both reagents involve the use of chromium inwhich it is reduced from Cr⁺⁶ to Cr⁺³ in the presence of the alcohol andacid. Cr⁺⁶ is yellowish orange in color and when it is reduced to Cr⁺³,the color is changed to blue-green.

In some embodiments, a chromic acid derivative and a suitable acid suchas sulphuric acid or hydrochloric acid are preloaded on an indicatorpaper associated with the substrate impregnated with a pesticidal orpest control active composition comprising an alcohol as a carriersolvent, and the alcohol vapor released from the substrate as pesticidalor pest control active vapors are released should react with thepreloaded chromic acid derivative indicator paper to cause the paper tochange color from yellow to green. The color change from yellow to greencan be used as a visual indicator of the relative amount of pesticidalor pest control active composition remaining in the substrate (i.e. whenthe color has changed from yellow to green, this indicates that most orall of the pesticidal or pest control active composition has beenreleased from the substrate). In alternative embodiments, rather thanusing a separate indicator paper, the indicator is integrated with thesubstrate.

In some embodiments, an indicator covered by a soluble coating thatdissolves in the presence of pesticidal or pest control active vapors isused to provide a visual indication of the amount of pesticidal or pestcontrol active composition remaining. As pesticidal or pest controlactive vapor is released from a release device, the soluble coating isexposed to and dissolved by the pesticidal or pest control activevapors. Once the coating has dissolved, the indicator is renderedvisible. The thickness and/or composition of the coating can be adjustedso that the coating is dissolved after a majority of the pesticidal orpest control active composition in the release device has been releasedas a vapor. Thus, the visibility of the indicator provides a visualindication that most or all of the pesticidal or pest control activecomposition has been released from the substrate.

In some embodiments, the release of pesticidal or pest control activevapors from a substrate proceeds by passive means, such as diffusion,evaporation, vaporization, aerosolization, or other natural process.

In some embodiments, the release of pesticidal or pest control activevapors from a substrate proceeds by active means, i.e. the naturalrelease of pesticidal or pest control active vapors from the substrateis enhanced by another mechanism, for example, heating, air exchange(for example by the operation of a fan), sonication, addition of achemical compound or enzyme that stimulates release of pesticidal orpest control active vapors from the substrate or produces an exothermicreaction, addition of a gas such as CO₂, application of electricalcurrent, or the like.

In some embodiments, an effective concentration of pesticidal or pestcontrol active vapors are used to control a pest. In some embodiments,pesticidal or pest control active vapors are contained within atreatment enclosure to enhance the efficacy of treatment of a particularpest infested article (e.g. as compared with allowing the free diffusionof pesticidal or pest control active vapors into the externalenvironment). In some embodiments, the treatment enclosure is sealable,such that pesticidal or pest control active vapors are released andcontained within a confined space. In some embodiments, the treatmentenclosure is permeable to pesticidal or pest control active vapors, sothat pesticidal or pest control active vapors can diffuse out of thetreatment enclosure. In some such embodiments, the permeable treatmentenclosure slows the rate of diffusion of pesticidal or pest controlactive vapors out of the treatment enclosure, as compared with the rateof diffusion of pesticidal or pest control active vapors in open air. Insome such embodiments, the permeable treatment enclosure helps to retaina sufficiently high vapor concentration within the treatment enclosurefor a sufficiently long period of time to control any pests within thetreatment enclosure.

In some embodiments, the pesticidal or pest control active vapors arereleased from a liquid solution containing a pesticidal or pest controlactive composition that is appropriately contained, for example by beingcontained within a membrane that is permeable to pesticidal or pestcontrol active vapors but not to liquid, or by being contained within areservoir of a device for releasing pesticidal or pest control activevapors, for example as described with reference to example embodimentsof such devices below. In some embodiments, a viscosity-modifying agentis added to the liquid, to modulate the rate of release of pesticidal orpest control active vapors from the liquid and/or to modulate the rateof flow of the liquid by modifying its viscosity. In some embodiments,petroleum jelly, liquid silicones, polyethylene glycol (PEG), polyvinylalcohol, sulfonates, sodium or calcium salts, or the like are used asviscosity-modifying agents to modulate the viscosity of a liquid sourceof pesticidal or pest control active vapors. In some embodiments,modulating the viscosity of a liquid source of pesticidal or pestcontrol active vapors can adjust the rate of release of pesticidal orpest control active vapors from the liquid composition.

FIG. 1 illustrates an example embodiment of a pesticidal or pest controlactive or pest control device 10 for releasing pesticidal or pestcontrol active or pest control active vapors. Pesticidal or pest controlactive or pest control device 10 has an absorbent substrate 16 that hasbeen impregnated with a pesticidal or pest control active composition ormaterial that produces a pesticidal or pest control active vapor.Pesticidal or pest control active or pest control device 10 has animpermeable membrane 18 provided on one edge of the impregnatedsubstrate 16. In embodiments where it is provided, impermeable membrane18 may act as a backing to help prevent the pesticidal or pest controlactive composition contained within impregnated substrate 16 fromcontacting surfaces on which pesticidal or pest control active or pestcontrol device 10 is placed.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1, impregnated substrate 16 has aplurality of dimples 12. Dimples 12 create a waffled surface. In someembodiments, dimples 12 may serve as wells to retain an applied (orpre-dosed) pesticidal or pest control active composition to aid inabsorption of that pesticidal or pest control active composition intoimpregnated substrate 16. For example, dimples 12 may serve to preventan applied liquid pesticidal or pest control active composition fromrunning off substrate 16 while the pesticidal or pest control activecomposition is absorbed into substrate 16. In some embodiments, dimples12 may be formed as a result of the process of manufacturing substrate16 and/or device 10, and may be a pressure point binding multiple layersof substrate 16. In some embodiments, dimples 12 may be formed as aresult of using a peg, optionally of the same material as substrate 16,to bind multiple layers of substrate 16 together. In some additionalembodiments, ridges, waves, depressions, or other surface shapes orforms may be formed in the surface of the impregnated substrate 16.

In some example embodiments, an absorbent multi-layered substrate 16comprises fibrous material that has been ‘felted’ together with pressureand/or friction in specific locations to produce dimples 12. In someembodiments, spot applications of adhesive are applied, penetratingmultiple of layers to anchor them together, while leaving the majorityof the surface and layers available for absorption of the appliedpesticidal or pest control active composition. In some exampleembodiments, mechanical aids such as dowels could be inserted throughmultiple layers of substrate 16, to help bind the separate layerstogether. In other embodiments, multiple layers of substrate 16 can beheld together in any suitable manner.

In some embodiments, a base of the impregnated substrate is covered byan impermeable membrane 18 to prevent the release of moisture or vaporsthrough that side so as to protect the surface on which the substrate isplaced. With reference to FIG. 2, illustrating an alternative device10A, in some embodiments, the base 18 of the substrate comprises anadhesive strip 22 for securing the substrate, for example within atreatment enclosure. In some embodiments, a side of the substratecomprises a removable cover strip 20 covering adhesive strip 22, toprotect adhesive strip 22 and help it retain its adhesive propertiesuntil device 10 is deployed and the removable cover strip 20 removed bya user. In some embodiments, both an impermeable membrane 18 and anadhesive strip 22 are provided with the impermeable membrane 18interposing adhesive strip 22 and impregnated substrate 16.

In some embodiments, a side of the substrate comprises a removableadhesive cover strip that is impermeable to prevent the release ofmoisture or vapors from the substrate until after the removable adhesivecoverstrip is removed (e.g. after a user has removed the removableadhesive strip to activate the device). In some embodiments, the side ofthe substrate comprising the removable adhesive cover strip is the sideopposite to the side of the substrate on which the impermeable membrane18 is provided.

With reference to FIG. 3, in some embodiments, one or more impregnatedsubstrates 16 or devices 10 are contained within an impermeable sealablepackage to prevent the release and escape of vapors when not in use. Inthe illustrated embodiment, an exemplary impermeable sealed package hasa body 24 and an end 28 with a resealable opening 30. In alternativeembodiments, the sealed package may just have a body with a resealableopening, with no distinct or clearly definable end like end 28 definedthereon. The resalable opening 30 can have any suitable resealableclosure, for example a releasable port, a zipper-like seal, a pressureseal, a reusable adhesive seal, or the like). In the illustratedembodiment, resealable opening 30 has a resealable pressure seal 32 suchas that commonly found in small plastic bags sold generally toconsumers.

In some embodiments, each substrate is pre-dosed with an appropriatequantity of pesticidal or pest control active composition for easyapplication within a given treatment volume. In some embodiments, thesubstrates 16 are pre-dosed with between 10 mL and 100 mL of pesticidalor pest control active composition. In some such embodiments, thesubstrates 16 are intended for use in a treatment enclosure having avolume in the range of 10 L to 1000 L, including any volume therebetweene.g. 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800 or 900 L. In someembodiments, a plurality of pre-dosed substrates 16 are packagedtogether in a suitable resealable package, and can be removedindividually from a package when needed.

In some embodiments, a pesticidal or pest control active composition inliquid form is contained in a vessel or reservoir from which vapors arereleasable. In some embodiments, vapors are released passively by awick, diffuser or through a permeable membrane. In some embodiments,diffusion and/or evaporation may be actively aided by a heater, fan,aerator, pump, or other electrical or mechanical means. In someembodiments, evaporation is actively increased or controlled by loweringor modifying the surface tension of the pesticidal or pest controlactive composition via electrical or mechanical means. In someembodiments, evaporation is actively increased by adding a chemicalagent to the pesticidal or pest control active composition. In some suchembodiments, the chemical agent catalyzes release of vapors of thepesticidal or pest control active composition from the device. In someembodiments, the chemical agent causes an exothermic reaction thatenhances release of vapors of the pesticidal or pest control activecomposition from the device.

Some embodiments comprise a means for actively diffusing a pesticidal orpest control active vapor, such as a fan, pump, or other such mechanicaldiffuser, an ultrasonic or humidifying diffuser, an evaporativediffuser, a heat diffuser, or other such diffusion-aiding components.Some embodiments comprise a means for increasing or controlling the rateof evaporation of vapors, such as a heater, fan, aerator (e.g. a devicefor passing air or gas through or over a solution containing apesticidal or pest control active composition), aerosolizer (e.g. anatomizer or other device for creating a mist of a pesticidal or pestcontrol active composition), pump, etc. Some devices comprise mechanicaland/or electrical components to achieve the functions described herein.

Devices according to some embodiments of the present invention comprisea portable housing containing a pesticidal or pest control activecomposition, gel or substrate as described above. In some embodiments,this housing comprises mesh, slits or holes or other openings (i.e.apertures) through which vapors may be released. In some embodiments,these openings may be opened and closed by appropriate means. In someembodiments, these openings are adjustable to control the rate ofrelease of vapors. In some embodiments, the housing comprises apermeable membrane or porous material that allows vapors to be releasedwhile containing any liquid or solid contents of the device. In someembodiments, the permeable membrane or porous material allows for thecontrolled release of vapors at a desired rate or dose. In someembodiments, the pesticidal or pest control active composition withinthe device is refillable.

With reference to FIG. 4a , an example embodiment of a device forpassively releasing vapors of a pesticide through a permeable membranehas an enclosure 40 with a pesticidal or pest control active composition46 received therein. In some embodiments, the pesticidal or pest controlactive composition 46 is provided in enclosure 40 on an impregnatedsubstrate or other vehicle for gradually releasing pesticidal or pestcontrol active vapors. In some embodiments, the pesticidal or pestcontrol active composition is spotted on a substrate in liquid formwithin enclosure 40, and diffuses outwardly within the absorbentsubstrate, as indicated by dashed line 45 showing the extent ofdiffusion of pesticidal or pest control active composition 46 on thesubstrate in FIG. 4a . Enclosure 40 has a permeable membrane 42 on oneedge thereof affixed at a lip 44 to the main body of enclosure 40, sothat pesticidal or pest control active vapours can diffuse out ofenclosure 40. In alternative embodiments, a reservoir such as reservoir55 described below can be provided in enclosure 40 for receiving apesticidal or pest control active composition in liquid form andreleasing vapors therefrom via permeable membrane 42. In alternativeembodiments, a gelled pesticidal or pest control active composition canreplace the substrate impregnated with a pesticidal or pest controlactive composition.

In the illustrated embodiment, enclosure 40 has a lip 44. In someembodiments, permeable membrane 42 is coupled to enclosure 40 via lip 44in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, permeable membrane 42 iscoupled to lip 44 by a suitable adhesive, melting or welding process,pressure or fusion method, solvent melt, or the like. In someembodiments, lip 44 is bevelled, for example to avoid having any sharpedges on enclosure 40 that might puncture a bag or other structure thatis used to contain enclosure 40, or other enclosures 40 stored together.

Enclosure 40 is generally cuboid in shape, with one edge of the cuboidbeing defined by permeable membrane 42. This configuration allows apesticide-impregnated substrate to be inserted inside enclosure 40,while permeable membrane 42 allows pesticidal or pest control activevapors to diffuse from the pesticide-impregnated substrate. In someembodiments, the sides of enclosure 40 other than the side defined bypermeable membrane 42 are made from a non-permeable material (e.g. glassor a suitable plastic), so that enclosure 40 can be placed on a surfacewithout releasing pesticide onto that surface, e.g. to avoid causingdamage to that surface. While the exemplary embodiment has beenillustrated as generally cuboid, enclosure 40 could be provided with anysuitable shape, e.g. spheroid, oval, cylindrical, pyramidal, or thelike.

With reference to FIG. 4b , an example embodiment of an alternativeenclosure 40A for delivering pesticidal or pest control active vapors isillustrated. Enclosure 40A is similar to enclosure 40, but has aperforated or mesh surface 48 having a plurality of apertures 49therethrough that allow for non-adjustable release of pesticidal or pestcontrol active vapors from a substrate impregnated with a pesticidal orpest control active composition 46 instead of a permeable membrane 42.In some embodiments, perforated or mesh surface 48 is supported on lip44 so that surface 48 does not contact the substrate impregnated withpesticidal or pest control active composition.

With reference to FIG. 4c , an example embodiment of an alternativeenclosure 40B for adjustably delivering pesticidal or pest controlactive vapors is illustrated. Enclosure 40B is similar to enclosure 40A,but has an adjustment shield 50 slidably mounted thereon. Perforated ormesh surface 48 on enclosure 40B allows pesticidal or pest controlactive vapors to diffuse from a substrate impregnated with a pesticidalor pest control active composition 46. Adjustment shield 50 is slidableover perforated or mesh surface 48 to obscure some or all of theapertures 49 therethrough. A user can slide adjustment shield 50 tocover more or fewer of apertures 49 to decrease or increase,respectively, the rate of release of pesticidal or pest control activecomposition 46 as pesticidal or pest control active vapors out ofenclosure 40B.

In alternative embodiments, perforated or mesh surface 48 could bereplaced with a permeable membrane 42.

With reference to FIG. 5a , an example embodiment of a device foractively diffusing pesticidal or pest control active vapors from asubstrate impregnated with a pesticidal or pest control activecomposition 46 (or a gelled pesticidal or pest control activecomposition, or a reservoir containing a liquid pesticidal or pestcontrol active composition in alternative embodiments) is illustrated.Enclosure 40C has a permeable membrane 42 for allowing release ofpesticidal or pest control active vapors therefrom, and a bevelledregion 44 connecting permeable membrane 42 to the main body of enclosure40C. Enclosure 40C further includes a diffusion/evaporation aid 54.Examples of diffusion/evaporation aids that could be used in someembodiments include a heater, fan, aerator, pump, or other electrical ormechanical means. Diffusion/evaporation aid 54, when operated, acts toenhance or increase the rate of release of pesticidal or pest controlactive vapors from enclosure 40C. In some embodiments, a user cancontrol the level of operation (e.g. the temperature setting of aheater, or the speed of rotation of a fan) or the length of time thatdiffusion/evaporation aid 54 is operated to enhance the release ofpesticidal or pest control active vapours to a desired level. In someembodiments, a user can provided a directionality to the operation ofdiffusion/evaporation aid 54, for example by adjusting a direction ofoutput of a fan, for example in order to direct vapors to a specificarea or to concentrate vapors in a specific region.

With reference to FIG. 5b , another example embodiment of a device foractively diffusing pesticidal or pest control active vapors from asubstrate impregnated with a pesticidal or pest control activecomposition is illustrated. Enclosure 40D is similar to enclosure 40C,but rather than having a permeable membrane 42, enclosure 40D has anon-adjustable perforated or mesh surface 48 to facilitate venting (i.e.release) of pesticidal or pest control active vapors of pesticidal orpest control active composition 46 through apertures 49 therein. Adiffusion/evaporation aid 54 is provided to enhance or increase the rateof release of pesticidal or pest control active vapors through apertures49 when operated.

With reference to FIG. 5c , another example embodiment of a device foractively diffusing pesticidal or pest control active vapors having anadjustable venting method is provided. Enclosure 40E is generallysimilar to enclosure 40D, but is further provided with an adjustmentshield 50 that can be slid by a user to cover some or all of apertures49 on perforated or mesh surface 48, so that a user can regulate therate of release of pesticidal or pest control active composition 46 byanother mechanism other than regulation of diffusion/evaporation aid 54.

With reference to FIG. 6, a further example embodiment of a non-passivedevice for releasing pesticidal or pest control active vapors isillustrated in cross-section. Enclosure 40F includes a permeablemembrane 42 for allowing release of pesticidal or pest control activevapors from a reservoir 55 with a pesticidal or pest control activecomposition 46 contained therein. Enclosure 40F includes adiffusion/evaporation aid 54 for stimulating the release of pesticidalor pest control active vapors from pesticidal or pest control activecomposition 46, to enhance the release of pesticidal or pest controlactive vapors through permeable membrane 42. Enclosure 40F furtherincludes a refilling port 56, which allows a user to add furtherpesticidal or pest control active composition 46 to enclosure 40F.

In some embodiments, pesticidal or pest control active composition 46 isprovided as a “puck”, i.e. a substrate impregnated with a pesticidal orpest control active composition, or a solution of a pesticidal or pestcontrol active composition contained within a permeable membrane thatcontains the liquid form of the pesticidal or pest control activecomposition but allows diffusion of vapours therefrom, or a gelcontaining a pesticidal or pest control active composition, andrefilling port 56 allows a user to remove a spent puck from enclosure40F and insert a fresh puck therein. In other embodiments, refillingport 56 provides an access pathway so that a user can use a pipettor orother dispensing device to add additional liquid pesticidal or pestcontrol active composition 46 to reservoir 55.

With reference to FIG. 7, a further example embodiment of a non-passivedevice is illustrated. Enclosure 40G has a reservoir 55 for receiving apesticidal or pest control active composition 46. At least a portion ofthe perimeter of reservoir 55 (and the entire perimeter in theillustrated embodiment) is provided with a diffusion member, forexample, a wick, diffuser or permeable membrane, illustratedschematically as 58. In some embodiments, diffusion member 58 is formedof the same materials as permeable membrane 42, or from any suitablesubstrate. Diffusion member 58 facilitates diffusion of pesticidal orpest control active vapors from pesticidal or pest control activecomposition 46. Enclosure 40G also includes a diffusion/evaporation aid54, to further enhance the release of pesticidal or pest control activevapors from pesticidal or pest control active composition 46. Enclosure40G also includes a refilling port 56, to allow additional pesticidal orpest control active composition 46 to be introduced therein. In theembodiment of enclosure 40G, pesticidal or pest control activecomposition 46 would typically be provided as a liquid composition thatcould flow into the wick, diffuser or permeable membrane 58.

With reference to FIG. 8, a further example embodiment is illustrated.Enclosure 40H has a reservoir 55 for containing a pesticidal or pestcontrol active composition 46. The reservoir 55 is partially bounded bya diffusion member 59, such as a wick, diffuser or permeable membrane.Diffusion member 59 is generally similar to diffusion member 58, exceptthat it is provided along only a portion of reservoir 55. A surfacetension modification device 60 is provided associated with reservoir 55,for modifying the surface tension of the pesticidal or pest controlactive composition 46 contained in reservoir 55. In some exampleembodiments, suitable means for modifying the surface tension include amechanism for bubbling air or another gas through reservoir 55, avibrator, a sonicator, an impeller or other agitator, electrodes, or thelike. In some embodiments, decreasing the surface tension of a liquidcontained in reservoir 55 may allow the pesticidal or pest controlactive composition 46 to flow more easily through fibres or across amembrane or other surface, in order to increase the rate of vaporrelease from that composition. This is another means of activediffusion. In the embodiment of enclosure 40H, pesticidal or pestcontrol active composition 46 would be provided as a liquid composition.

In some embodiments, some devices allow for easy assessment by users ofthe quantity of product remaining. Some devices with a liquid store ofpesticidal or pest control active composition allow for visual windowsonto the fill level or for floats to indicate the amount of liquidremaining. Devices which incorporate a composition-impregnated substratemay have the substrate change color depending on its moisture level. Inyet other embodiments, gel substrates may co-evaporate with or otherwisedegrade with the evaporation of the pesticidal or pest control activecomposition, such that the quantity of pesticidal or pest control activecomposition remaining is indicated by the quantity of substrateremaining. In other embodiments, solid substrates may degrade with theevaporation of the pesticidal or pest control active composition, sothat the quantity of pesticidal or pest control active compositionremaining is indicated by the quantity of substrate remaining.

FIGS. 9a, 9b and 9c illustrate example embodiments of non-passivedevices for releasing pesticidal or pest control active vapors. Theseexample embodiments include visual indicators to indicate the amount ofpesticidal or pest control active composition 46 remaining in thedevice.

The example embodiment of an enclosure 40I illustrated in FIG. 9a has aviewing window 62 that allows a user to visually ascertain the level 63of a liquid pesticidal or pest control active composition 46 within areservoir 55 of the device. In some such embodiments, a refilling portsimilar to refilling port 56 is provided, so that a user can refill theliquid pesticidal or pest control active composition 46 within reservoir55 when the level 63 is observed to fall below a predetermined level.

The example embodiment of an enclosure 40J illustrated in FIG. 9b has avisual indicator, a float 66 in the illustrated embodiment, thatprovides a visual indication on the outside of enclosure 40J of thelevel 63 of liquid pesticidal or pest control active composition 46remaining in reservoir 55. In some such embodiments, a refilling portsimilar to refilling port 56 is provided, so that a user can refill theliquid pesticidal or pest control active composition 46 within reservoir55 when the level 63, as indicated by float 66, is observed to fallbelow a predetermined level.

The example embodiment of an enclosure 40K shown in FIG. 9c has acolored co-evaporating substance 68 that evaporates at the same or asimilar rate as pesticidal or pest control active composition 46contained within reservoir 55. Thus, a user can ascertain the level 63of pesticidal or pest control active composition 46 remaining inreservoir 55 by viewing the level of the colored co-evaporatingsubstance 68. In some such embodiments, a refilling port similar torefilling port 56 is provided, so that a user can refill the liquidpesticidal or pest control active composition 46 within reservoir 55when the level 63, as indicated by visual inspection of coloredco-evaporating substance 68, is observed to fall below a predeterminedlevel. In alternative embodiments, a similar colored visual indicationof the level of pesticidal or pest control active composition remainingin the device could be provided by the use of a color-changing substrate(i.e. a substrate that changes color as it dries out), or by providing aseparate reservoir of a colored volatile compound that evaporates at arate similar to pesticidal or pest control active composition 46.

Some embodiments of the present invention allow for a controlled releaseof a particular dose of a pesticidal or pest control active vapor. Somedevices according to the present invention include a means formonitoring and/or self-regulating the dose of pesticidal or pest controlactive vapor that is released over time. In some devices, thismonitoring and/or self-regulating is accomplished by measuring a weightchange over time of the device or the substrate or composition containedin the device.

FIG. 10 shows an example embodiment of a non-passive device forreleasing pesticidal or pest control active vapors with a monitoringand/or self-regulating component 70. Enclosure 40L has a pesticidal orpest control active composition 46 contained within a reservoir 45, anda diffusion/evaporation aid 54 to promote release of pesticidal or pestcontrol active vapors. Enclosure 40L further includes a monitoringand/or self-regulating component 70, which is a device for measuring thechange in weight over time of the pesticidal or pest control activecomposition 46 contained in reservoir 55. Enclosure 40L also includes arefilling port 56. In some embodiments, a user can add more pesticidalor pest control active composition 46 to enclosure 40L through refillingport 56 in response to a signal or indication by monitoring and/orself-regulating device 70 indicating that the level of pesticidal orpest control active composition 46 in reservoir 55 has dropped below apredetermined level. Such a signal can be generated by any suitablemeans, e.g. a visual indication, an audible indication, an electricalsignal transmitted by wired or wireless means to a monitoring station,or the like.

FIG. 11 shows an example embodiment of a non-passive device, enclosure40M, having an activation agent 72 that enhances the release ofpesticidal or pest control active vapors from pesticidal or pest controlactive composition 46. In some embodiments, including the illustratedembodiment, activation agent 72 is contained in a well, reservoir, orother structure such as reservoir 74, that can be placed in fluidcommunication with reservoir 55. Activation agent 72 can be any suitableagent that interacts with pesticidal or pest control active composition46 to enhance the release of vapors therefrom, for example, a catalyst,enzyme or other reaction initiator, or a chemical compound that causesan exothermic reaction to heat pesticidal or pest control activecomposition 46 and thereby increase the rate of release of pesticidal orpest control active vapors therefrom. In some embodiments, enclosure 40Malso includes a diffusion/evaporation aid 54, to further assist inincreasing the release of vapor from pesticidal or pest control activecomposition 46. In some embodiments, enclosure 40M includes a refillingport 56, to facilitate adding additional pesticidal or pest controlactive composition 46 to enclosure 40M.

In some devices, the pesticidal or pest control active composition orimpregnated substrate is formulated to release vapors upon contact withan activation agent. The activation agent may chemically react with thepesticidal or pest control active composition or substrate, or serve asa catalyst to a chemical reaction, that releases vapors. In someembodiments the activation agent is water or another solvent. Withoutbeing bound by theory, water or another solvent may act as an activationagent by (1) dissolving or emulsifying an insecticidal composition whichthen enters a vapor phase with evaporating water; (2) water may bemiscible with at least one component of an pesticidal or pest controlactive composition and when combined, the water and the componentco-evaporate at a higher rate and/or lower temperature than thecomponent would evaporate at if not combined with water; and/or (3)exothermic reactions with water (e.g. an acid-base reaction) can heatthe pesticidal or pest control active composition to increase itsevaporation rate. In some embodiments, the user triggers the release ofvapors by adding the activation agent to the device, or otherwisecausing the activation agent to come into contact with the pesticidal orpest control active composition or substrate in the device.

In some embodiments, the activation agent is a chemical compound thatcauses an exothermic reaction, for example, calcium oxide,nitrocellulose potassium nitrate, peroxide of potassium permanganate, orthe like, as described in JP 394189382 and TW 201306740A, both of whichare incorporated by reference herein. In some embodiments, in a devicefor releasing pesticidal or pest control active vapors, a chemicalcompound that causes an exothermic reaction is added to a water baththat surrounds and/or contacts a substrate impregnated with a pesticidalor pest control active composition via an interposed impermeable layer,so that heat from the water bath is transferred to the substrate.

In some embodiments, a device for providing vapors of a pesticidal orpest control active composition has a pump or other discharge mechanismfor releasing a controlled amount of a pesticidal or pest control activesolution from a liquid reservoir onto a substrate from which pesticidalor pest control active vapors can be released from the pesticidal orpest control active solution. In some such embodiments, the pump is setto deliver a pre-determined amount of liquid pesticidal or pest controlactive composition to the substrate to replace the pesticidal or pestcontrol active composition that is being released as a vapor atapproximately the same rate that the pesticidal or pest control activecomposition is released as vapor. In some such embodiments, the pump isset to deliver a pre-determined amount of liquid pesticidal or pestcontrol active composition to the substrate to maintain a substantiallyconstant concentration of pesticidal or pest control active vapor withina treatment enclosure. In some embodiments, the pump is set to deliver apre-determined amount of liquid pesticidal or pest control activecomposition to the substrate periodically over time, to periodicallydeliver an effective amount of pesticidal or pest control active vaporwithin a treatment enclosure to control pests within the treatmentenclosure on an ongoing basis or at multiple time intervals. In someembodiments, the pump is set to deliver a pre-determined amount ofliquid pesticidal or pest control active composition for a prolongedperiod of time, for example from 1 day to 6 months, or any period oftime therebetween, e.g. 15 days, 30 days, 45 days, 60 days, 3 months, 4months or 5 months. In some embodiments, the pump is set to deliver apre-determined amount of liquid pesticidal or pest control activecomposition a specified intervals, e.g. for 2 days every month on anongoing basis.

With reference to FIG. 12a , an example embodiment of a pillow-packagedsubstrate 200 that provides a device for releasing pesticidal or pestcontrol active vapors is illustrated. Pillow-packaged substrate 200 hasan outer housing 202 made from an impermeable material, containing asubstrate 204 impregnated with a pesticidal or pest control activecomposition therein. In the illustrated embodiment, outer housing 202 isformed from top and bottom layers of impermeable material, sealedtogether along their edges to define a space therein for receivingsubstrate 204. FIG. 12a shows the substrate 204 and outer housing 202adjacent one another to better show the features of pillow packagedsubstrate 200. In some embodiments, substrate 204 is impregnated withpesticidal or pest control active composition and placed inside outerhousing 202, which is then sealed. Outer housing 202 remains sealeduntil a user is ready to use substrate 204 to release pesticidal or pestcontrol active vapors. The user then opens outer housing 202 in anysuitable manner and removes substrate 204 for use.

Examples of suitable impermeable materials that can be used to formouter housing 202 include any suitable plastic or similar impermeablematerial, including polyesters like polyethylene, low/medium and highdensity polyethylene, biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate(e.g. Mylar™), polypropylene, biaxially oriented polypropylene,metalized polyester, nylon, biaxially oriented nylon, paper poly foilpoly, ethylene-vinyl acetate, film foil laminations, poly extrusionlaminations, and the like.

FIG. 12b shows an example embodiment of a pillow-packaged substrate200A. Pillow-packaged substrate 200A is generally similar topillow-packaged substrate 200, except that outer housing 202A includes apeel strip 206 one face thereof. Peel strip 206 can be peeled back fromthe main body of outer housing 202A to reveal a perforated surface 208of outer housing 202A. Perforated surface 208 is provided with aplurality of apertures 210. When peel strip 206 is in the sealedposition, perforated surface 208 (and more specifically, all ofapertures 210) are sealingly covered by peel strip 206. In someembodiments, substrate 204 is impregnated with a pesticidal or pestcontrol active composition and placed inside outer housing 202A, whichis then sealed. Outer housing 202A remains sealed, until a user is readyto use substrate 204 to release pesticidal or pest control activevapors. The user then peels back peel strip 206 to expose some or all ofapertures 210 on perforated surface 208, so that pesticidal or pestcontrol active vapors can be released from pillow-packaged substrate200A via apertures 210.

FIG. 12c shows an example embodiment of a pillow-packaged substrate200B. Pillow-packaged substrate 200B is generally similar topillow-packaged substrate 200A, except that a window 212 is provided inplace of perforated surface 208. In the illustrated embodiment, window212 comprises a generally rectangular opening in outer housing 202B thatis initially sealingly covered by peel strip 206. Peel strip 206 can bepulled back to uncover window 212, thereby exposing substrate 204. Insome embodiments, substrate 204 is impregnated with a pesticidal or pestcontrol active composition and placed inside housing 202B, which is thensealed. Outer housing 202B remains sealed until a user is ready to usesubstrate 204 to release pesticidal or pest control active vapors. Theuser then peels back peel strip 206 to expose all or part of window 212,so that pesticidal or pest control active vapors can be released frompillow-packaged substrate 200B.

In alternative embodiments, rather than covering perforated surface 208or window 212 with a peel strip 206, outer housing 202A or 202B couldinstead be provided with a series of cut lines, and a user could cut ortear along the cut lines to remove a portion of outer housing 202 andexpose perforated surface 208 and/or window 212.

In alternative embodiments, rather than peel strip 206 being made of aflexible material, outer housing 202A or 202B could be provided with arigid resealable closure, for example in the nature of rigid resealableplastic closures provided on packaging of consumer wet wipes and/orantibacterial wipes. The rigid resealable closure could be opened andclosed by a user to expose perforated surface 208 or window 212 only atdesired times, and could contain pesticidal or pest control activevapors within substrate 204 to preserve pillow-packaged substrate 200Aor 200B for future uses. An example of such an embodiment is illustratedin FIG. 12d , in which pillow-packaged substrate 200A has a rigidplastic resealable closure 214 covering perforated surface 208(including apertures 210 and substrate 204) instead of a peel strip 206.

FIG. 37 shows a top view of a related exemplary pillow-packagedsubstrate treatment pad device 372, showing a protective peel-off strip374 sealing over one or more vapor release apertures (not shown), andenclosing a substrate (not shown) adapted for absorption of a pesticidalor pest control active formulation, according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure. In one such embodiment, the pillow-package housingof the device 372 may comprise one or more suitable impermeablematerials that can be used to form a substantially vapor-impermeableouter housing of device 372, and in some embodiments may comprise anysuitable plastic or similar substantially impermeable material,including but not limited to polyesters like polyethylene, low/mediumand high density polyethylene, biaxially-oriented polyethyleneterephthalate (e.g. Mylar™), polypropylene, biaxially orientedpolypropylene, metalized polyester, nylon, biaxially oriented nylon,paper poly foil poly, ethylene-vinyl acetate, film foil laminations,poly extrusion laminations, and the like. In some embodiments, peelstrip 374 may comprise any suitable substantially impermeable materialadapted for sealing over one or more vapor release apertures, such as asuitable flexible film or sheet material which may be adhesively orotherwise suitable sealed to the outer housing of device 372, oralternatively may be integral with or form part of the outer housing ofdevice 372 and be adapted for peeling away from the remainder of theouter housing, such as by release of a peelable releasable adhesive, orby separation (such as but not limited to separation of one of aplurality of layers of material) from the outer housing of device 372such as to reveal at least a portion of the vapor release aperture(s)for facilitating release of vapors of the pesticidal or pest controlactive formulation, for example.

FIG. 38 shows a top view of an exemplary pillow-packaged substratetreatment pad device 382 after opening by removing a protective peel-offstrip, showing an exemplary pattern of vapour release apertures 384, andenclosing a substrate (not shown) adapted for absorption of a pesticidalor pest control active formulation for release of pesticidal or pestcontrol active vapors through the apertures, according to an embodimentof the present disclosure.

FIG. 39 shows a top view of an alternative pillow-packaged substratetreatment pad device 390, showing exemplary visual elements 394 and anexemplary instructive indicia 396 for opening of a protective peel-offstrip 398 sealing over one or more vapour release apertures (not shown),for enclosing a substrate (not shown) adapted for absorption of apesticidal or pest control active formulation, according to anembodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 40 shows a top view of a further exemplary pillow-packagedsubstrate treatment pad device 402, showing exemplary visual elementsand an exemplary instructive indicia for opening of a top protectivepeel-off strip sealing over one or more vapour release apertures (notshown), and enclosing a substrate (not visible under strip) adapted forabsorption of a pesticidal or pest control active formulation, accordingto an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 41 shows a top view of the exemplary pillow-packaged substratetreatment pad device 402 shown in FIG. 40, showing the top protectivepeel-off strip partially removed to show an exemplary pattern of one ormore vapour release apertures, and enclosing an exemplary substrateadapted for absorption of a pesticidal or pest control activeformulation and for release of pesticidal or pest control active vaporsthrough the apertures, according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 42 shows a top view of the exemplary pillow-packaged substratetreatment pad device 402, after opening by removing a peel-off strip,showing an exemplary pattern of vapour release apertures, and enclosingan exemplary substrate adapted for absorption of a pesticidal or pestcontrol active formulation for release of pesticidal or pest controlactive vapors through the apertures, according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 43 shows a perspective view of the pillow-packaged substratetreatment pad device 402, showing the side and top of the pad afteropening by removing a peel-off strip, showing an exemplary pattern ofvapour release apertures, and enclosing an exemplary substrate adaptedfor absorption of a pesticidal or pest control active formulation forrelease of pesticidal or pest control active vapors through theapertures, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 44 shows a side or edge view of the pillow-packaged substratetreatment pad device 402 showing the side or edge of the pad afteropening by removing a peel-off strip, showing an exemplary pattern ofvapour release apertures, and enclosing an exemplary substrate adaptedfor absorption of a pesticidal or pest control active formulation forrelease of pesticidal or pest control active vapors through theapertures, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 45 shows a bottom view of a pillow-packaged substrate treatment paddevice 402, adapted for enclosing a substrate (not shown) adapted forabsorption of a pesticidal or pest control active formulation, accordingto an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 46 shows a top view of an exemplary alternative pillow-packagedsubstrate treatment pad device 462, showing visual elements and aninstructive indicia for opening of a top protective peel-off stripsealing over one or more vapour release apertures (not visible understrip), and enclosing a substrate (not shown) adapted for absorption ofa pesticidal or pest control active formulation, according to anembodiment of the present disclosure.

Some embodiments of the present invention provide methods for killing orcontrolling a pest comprising placing a pesticidal or pest controlactive composition, substrate or device as described above in thevicinity of a target pest, such that the pest is exposed to the vaporsreleased from the composition, substrate, or device.

In some embodiments, methods comprise placing the composition, substrateor device in an enclosed volume of space (i.e. a treatment enclosure)such that released pesticidal or pest control active vapors accumulatewithin the enclosed space and effectively kill or control any targetpest within the space over a period of time. In some embodiments, theenclosed space is a sealable container containing objects that areinfested or potentially infested by a target pest. In some embodiments,the enclosed space is a container that can be partially enclosedcontaining objects that are infested or potentially infested by a targetpest. In some embodiments, the enclosed space is a container that isonly partially permeable to pesticide vapors, and the container containsobjects that are infested or potentially infested by a target pest.Examples of enclosed spaces or sealable containers that can provide atreatment enclosure in some embodiments include bags, garbage bags,garbage or recycling bins, boxes, suitcases, back packs, duffel bags,clothes bags, cabinets, totes, barrels, pet kennels and crates, shippingcontainers (including intermodal, standard, high-cube, hard top,ventilated, refrigerated, insulated and tank containers and the like),vehicles such as cars, trucks, buses, boats, train cars, recreationalvehicles, motorhomes, cube vans, transport trucks, boats and the like,including public transportation vehicles, closets, rooms, hotel rooms,offices, dormitories, storage lockers, warehouses, greenhouses, publicauditoriums (for example, theaters, concert halls, lecture halls and thelike), refrigerators/freezers, bee hives, food storage containers,pre-sealed packages containing food or non-food items, retail food bags,food storage structures (e.g. silos and the like, including fruitstorage containers), library shelves enclosed in sheets of plastic, bookbins, and the like.

In some embodiments, the sealable containers are made of a material thatis impermeable to vapors. In some embodiments, the enclosed space orsealable containers are sealed by wrapping or affixing an impermeablemembrane around the space or over any areas through which vapors mayleak out. In some embodiments, this impermeable membrane is stretchableplastic wrap or tape. In some embodiments, the enclosed space orsealable container is further placed within a sealed room or chamber. Insome embodiments, the period of time the container is sealed or left inits enclosed state is at least 15 minutes, at least 30 minutes, at least1 hour, at least 2 hours, at least 4 hours, at least 6 hours, at least 8hours, at least 12 hours, at least 16 hours, or 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7days, or more.

In some embodiments, a treatment enclosure is provided on a live animal,for example a mammal such as a companion animal, livestock or a human,by providing an impermeable membrane such as plastic around at least aportion of the animal. For example, external parasites such as fleas,lice, ticks, bog-flies, mites or the like, can be treated on an animalby providing a bag around the animal from which its head protrudes. Thebag can be sealed around the infested portion of the animal, andpesticidal or pest control active vapors released within the bag tocontrol pests located directly on the animal. In some embodiments, animpermeable cap, similar to a shower cap, is provided that can be placedon the head of a human as a treatment enclosure to contain pesticidal orpest control active vapors to control a pest located in the hair orscalp of the human, for example lice or ticks. In some embodiments, theanimal is a dog, cat, mouse, hamster, guinea pig, bird, horse, cow,sheep, goat, pig, duck, turkey, chicken or the like.

In some embodiments, a treatment enclosure is provided on one or morelive plants. For example, a plant (e.g. a potted house plant) or a groupof plants (e.g. a row of plants) is covered by a bag or otherimpermeable membrane, and pesticidal or pest control active vapors arereleased inside the impermeable membrane to control pests associatedwith the plant. Examples of pests that can be controlled in this mannerinclude all life stages of aphids, ants, spider mites and other mites,thrips, beetles, moths, scales, mealybugs, and other arthropods that mayinfest plants. In some embodiments, the amount of pesticidal or pestcontrol active vapor released within the treatment enclosure is selectedto differentially control an undesirable pest, while not harming one ormore other beneficial arthropod species, for example ladybugs (which arepredators of pests such as aphids) or bees or other pollinators.

In some embodiments, a method is provided for treating objects that areinfested or potentially infested by pests comprising placing theinfested objects in a container, placing a pesticidal or pest controlactive composition, substrate or device as described above into thecontainer, and sealing the container for a sufficient time to allow thevapors of the pesticidal or pest control active composition to kill orotherwise control the pests and/or its eggs.

With reference to FIG. 13, an example embodiment of a treatmentenclosure 80 in which a pesticidal or pest control active composition 46is used to treat a target pest 82 is schematically illustrated. Thetarget pest 82, and/or an article infested with a target pest 82, and apesticidal or pest control active composition 46 that releasespesticidal or pest control active vapors are placed together within atreatment enclosure 80. The source of pesticidal or pest control activevapors from pesticidal or pest control active composition 46 is left intreatment enclosure 80 for a sufficient period of time to control thetarget pest 82.

In some embodiments, a device for releasing pesticidal or pest controlactive vapors, a pesticide-impregnated substrate, or a gelled pesticidalor pest control active composition is provided as an integral part of atreatment enclosure into which infested articles can be inserted fortreatment. With reference to FIG. 14a , an example embodiment of atreatment enclosure 250 is illustrated. Treatment enclosure 250 has animpermeable or substantially impermeable outer layer 252. In someembodiments, impermeable outer layer 252 is a plastic bag. At least onesubstrate, gel or device 254 for releasing an effective amount of apesticidal or pest control active vapor is adhered to or otherwiseprovided within outer layer 252. In some embodiments, the substrate, gelor device 254 is covered by a protective mesh or wire housing 255, toprevent direct contact between infested articles inserted in outer layer252 and vapor release device 254. In some embodiments, protective meshor wire housing 255 is directly secured on the inside surface of outerlayer 252. In some embodiments, a plurality of substrates, gels and/ordevices 254 are provided within outer layer 252.

In the illustrated embodiment, outer housing 252 is provided with aresealable opening 256. In use, a user can open resealable opening 256,insert infested articles inside outer housing 252, re-seal resealableopening 256, leave opening 256 sealed for a predetermined treatmentperiod (e.g. 1 hour, 1 day, one week, or any time interval therebetween)to control pests associated with the infested articles, and then openresalable opening 256 to remove the treated articles.

In some embodiments, including the illustrated embodiment, outer housing252 is provided with a tear strip 258 or other suitable member thatsealingly covers opening 256, to prevent the inadvertent release ofpesticidal or pest control active vapors from treatment enclosure 250before a user is ready to insert infested articles. For example, tearstrip 258 could be a partially perforated section of plastic or thelike, which is initially sealed, but which can be easily torn off by auser to access opening 256 when it is intended to use treatmentenclosure 250 (e.g. similar to tear away plastic coverings overresealable openings on commercially sold food items).

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 14b , an example embodiment of amulti-layered treatment enclosure 250A is illustrated. Treatmentenclosure 250A has an impermeable or generally impermeable outer housing252, and an inner substrate lining 260 that is a substrate impregnatedwith a pesticidal or pest control active composition. Inner substratelining 260 sits inside outer housing 252 and lines the inside surface oftreatment enclosure 250, to release pesticidal or pest control activevapors to treat infested articles placed therein. Inner substrate lining260 is pre-dosed with an effective amount of a pesticidal or pestcontrol active composition to provide an effective vapor concentrationto control pests associated with infested articles inserted in treatmentenclosure 250A. As in the illustrated embodiment, in some embodiments, apermeable inner membrane 262 is provided on the inside surface of innersubstrate lining 260, to prevent infested articles from coming in directcontact with inner substrate lining 260 while allowing pesticidal orpest control active vapors to permeate throughout the volume of thetreatment enclosure 250A. In some embodiments, permeable inner membrane262 is omitted. Treatment enclosure 250A is provided with a resealableopening 256, so that a user can insert and seal infested articles withintreatment enclosure 250A for a treatment period.

With reference to FIG. 14c , an example embodiment of a reusabletreatment enclosure 250B is illustrated. Treatment enclosure 250B has anouter impermeable layer 252 and a resealable opening 256, to allow auser to insert and remove infested articles from treatment enclosure250B after a suitable treatment period. Treatment enclosure 250B furtherhas at least one side pocket 264, and may have a plurality of sidepockets 264. The outer surface of side pocket 264 is continuous withouter impermeable layer 252, or is sealingly engaged therewith. Theinner surface of side pocket 264 comprises a permeable membrane 266. Asource of pesticidal or pest control active vapors 270, which can be adevice for releasing pesticidal or pest control active vapors, asubstrate impregnated with a pesticidal or pest control activecomposition, or a gel of a pesticidal or pest control activecomposition, can be placed within pocket 264 via a resealable opening268. Vapors released from the source of pesticidal or pest controlactive vapors 270 can diffuse into the interior of treatment enclosure250B via permeable membrane 266. In use, a user inserts infestedarticles into enclosure 250B via resealable opening 256, and inserts asource of pesticidal or pest control active vapors into side pocket 264via resealable opening 268. Both openings 256 and 268 are sealed, andthe infested articles are left within the sealed treatment enclosure250B for a predetermined treatment period to control pests on theinfested articles. The articles can then be removed from treatmentenclosure 250B, and the spent source of pesticidal or pest controlactive vapors 270 can be removed from side pocket 264 and disposed of ina suitable manner. Treatment enclosure 250B is then ready for subsequentre-use to control pests on infested articles by repeating the abovesteps.

In some embodiments, outer layer 252 of treatment enclosure 250B is apliable impermeable membrane, such as a plastic bag. In someembodiments, outer layer 252 of treatment enclosure 250B is a moredurable material, for example rigid plastic or rubber, metal, wood,cardboard, expanded polystyrene, glass or the like to facilitate longterm re-use of treatment enclosure 250B. In some embodiments,professional pest control personnel may maintain a stock of reusabletreatment enclosures similar to treatment enclosure 250B, to facilitaterepeated treatment of infested articles.

With reference to FIG. 14d , a single-layer treatment enclosure 250C isillustrated. Treatment enclosure 250C comprises a single layer 252C thatis impermeable or generally impermeable to pesticidal or pest controlactive vapors. Single layer 252C is also impregnated with a pesticidalor pest control active composition, so that when infested articles areplaced within treatment enclosure 250C, the infested articles will beexposed to an effective amount of pesticidal or pest control activevapor to control pests on the infested articles. Treatment enclosure250C can be closed in any suitable manner, for example using aresealable opening such as resealable opening 256. In the illustratedembodiment, treatment enclosure 250C can be closed via a drawstring 272,to enclose infested articles within treatment enclosure 250C. Whilepesticidal or pest control active vapors will be released both insideand outside of treatment enclosure 250C, the concentration of pesticideimpregnated within single layer 252C is sufficient to provide effectivecontrol of pests enclosed inside treatment enclosure 250C. Someembodiments such as treatment enclosure 250C may be particularlyadvantageous in outdoor applications, for example in the treatment of aplant infested with aphids or other pests, where there is limitedconcern for any odor released by the pesticidal or pest control activetreatment.

In some methods, the enclosed space in which pests are to be controlledis a bee hive wherein bees are infested by a parasitic pest such asvarroa mites. In some embodiments, vapors released by a pesticidal orpest control active composition, substrate, or device are effective inselectively controlling a parasitic pest without causing significantharm to its beneficial host. For example, some embodiments of thepresent invention can be used to control varroa mites within honey beecolonies by differentially killing and/or controlling the mites morereadily than the bees. In some embodiments, the pesticidal or pestcontrol active vapors may disrupt or inhibit feeding, growth orreproductive functions of the varroa mites, or they may cause the mitesto detach from the bees.

With reference to FIGS. 15 and 16, an example embodiment of a treatmentenclosure that is a Langstroth bee hive 100 is illustrated. Bee hive 100has an outer cover 102, an inner cover 104, a honey super 106, twovertically stacked brood chambers 108, a bottom board 110, and a hivestand 112. Arrows 114 represent potential locations where a generallyflat substrate 16 impregnated with a pesticidal or pest control activecomposition, or other device for releasing pesticidal or pest controlactive vapors, could potentially be inserted within bee hive 100, andFIG. 16 shows an example placement of such a substrate on top of frames118 of a honey super 106 within the hive.

Hive 100 is an example of a treatment enclosure that is at leastpartially permeable to pesticidal or pest control active vapors. Inparticular, hive 100 includes openings 116 to allow bees to enter andexit hive 100. In the illustrated embodiment, opening 116 has beenillustrated as being positioned at the bottom of the lower-most broodchamber of the hive (just above the ground). Such openings are typically1-3 cm tall and can vary in width in typical hives. However, openings116 can be provided at any desired location, for example, at the gapbetween or drilled into the front face of any of the brood chambers orhoney super chambers. Pesticidal or pest control active vapors releasedby substrate 16 are generally contained within hive 100, but there issome escape of pesticidal or pest control active vapors from hive 100(i.e. hive 100 is not airtight).

In some example embodiments, a vapor-release device or substrate such asany of those described above is inserted within a bee hive, and thesubstrate or reservoir of the release device is in fluid communicationwith a source of pesticidal or pest control active composition, forexample a hose or other form of tubing is connected at a first end to anexternal reservoir containing a solution of pesticidal or pest controlactive composition, and a second end of the hose or other form of tubingis positioned to release liquid pesticidal or pest control activecomposition onto the substrate or into the reservoir. A manual hand pumpor an electrically activated pump is supplied to allow pesticidal orpest control active composition to be pumped from the external reservoironto the substrate or into the reservoir of the vapor release device. Inuse, an operator can periodically manually actuate the hand pump and/orthe electrically activated pump can be periodically or continuouslyactuated to deliver a periodic or ongoing supply of pesticidal or pestcontrol active composition to the substrate or reservoir. Such anapparatus facilitates the ongoing and/or repeated delivery of pesticidalor pest control active vapors within the bee hive, without the need toperiodically open up the hive and replace a pesticide-impregnatedsubstrate, which can potentially disrupt the bees within the hive. Theapparatus also reduces the labor costs that would be associated withperiodically manually replenishing the source of pesticidal or pestcontrol active vapors inside the hive.

In some embodiments, the volume of the container is variable such thatthe volume of space in the container may be reduced or expanded asdesired to facilitate treatment. For example, some methods compriseplacing objects in a variable-volume container with a device forreleasing pesticidal or pest control active vapors, removing a quantityof excess air from the variable-volume container, and sealing thecontainer for a sufficient time to allow the vapors of the pesticidal orpest control active composition to kill or control the target pestsand/or its eggs. Reducing the volume of space to be treated in this waycan allow for a higher vapor concentration to be achieved in thecontainer for a given dose of pesticidal or pest control active vapors,or can allow for a smaller dose to be delivered to achieve a given vaporconcentration. The variable-volume container can be a bag made offlexible plastic or any other non-rigid, impermeable material.

Although reducing the volume of the treated space in this way can bebeneficial, preferably sufficient space is left around the treatedobjects to allow for the flow of pesticidal or pest control activevapors to circulate evenly throughout the space. In some embodiments,the variable-volume container includes a means for maintaining somespace between the objects within the container and the walls of thecontainer. For example, the variable-volume container may comprise anadjustable internal ribbing for supporting the walls of the containersome distance away from the objects within the container.

In some embodiments, the container includes a valve through which airmay be removed from the container, and/or pesticidal or pest controlactive vapors may be added to the container. In some embodiments, air isremoved through the valve by squeezing in the walls of the container. Inother embodiments, air is removed using a device such as a vacuum or apump. In some embodiments, a device for releasing pesticidal or pestcontrol active vapors is attachable to the valve such that pesticidal orpest control active vapors are releasable into the sealed container.

In some methods, a pump is used to pump pesticidal or pest controlactive vapors into a sealed container. The pump may allow theconcentration of pesticidal or pest control active vapors in thecontainer to be increased more quickly and to a higher level than couldbe achieved by passive diffusion. Increased vapor pressure can in turnresult in faster mortality of target pests and a shorter overalltreatment period. In some methods, the pump is used to increase thevapor concentration in the container above a desired threshold or withina desired range. The pump may be manual, electric or otherwisemotorized.

In some methods, a pump and/or valve is first used to remove air from asealed container and then is used to add pesticidal or pest controlactive vapors into the container. Such methods can further increase therelative concentration of pesticidal or pest control active vapors inthe container and reduce the availability of clean air for the targetpests to breathe.

In some embodiments, a treatment container is provided that has a devicefor releasing pesticidal or pest control active vapors built-in. Thetreatment container may be variable-volume as described above. Thetreatment container may include a valve and/or pump as described above.

Examples of objects that may be treated according to embodiments of thepresent invention include books, art-work, toys, clothing, linens,footwear, documents, DVDs, electronics, computers, phones, furniture,luggage, bedding, pallets, crates, lumber, firewood, soil, plants, pets,items being shipped in a shipping container, bee hives, food, foodstorage containers, or any other object that may be infested with atarget pest. In some embodiments, such infested objects are referred toas infested articles.

In some embodiments, the effectiveness of the pesticidal or pest controlactive vapor in controlling a target pest is enhanced by the release ofa stimulation agent before, after, or at the same time as the release ofthe pesticidal or pest control active vapors. The stimulation agent mayact as stimulant or attractant to the target pest, such that the pestmoves about more, moves closer to the release of pesticidal or pestcontrol active vapors and/or moves out of safe harborages into openspace. The stimulation agent may act to increase the metabolic rateand/or the breathing rate of the target pest, such that its bio-uptakeof pesticidal or pest control active vapors is increased. Thestimulation agent may otherwise serve to stimulate the target pest to bemore active than it would be without the presence of the stimulationagent, thereby increasing the likelihood it will be exposed to andaffected by the pesticidal or pest control active vapors.

In some embodiments, the stimulation agent is carbon dioxide (CO₂),nitrogen (N₂), a propellant, or an inert gas. In other embodiments, thestimulation agent is a pheromone, kairomone, allomone, repellent, orother semiochemical, or a phagostimulant. In other embodiments, thestimulation agent is heat. In other embodiments, the stimulation agentis moisture or water vapor. In other embodiments, the stimulation agentis light, darkness, vibration or air movement. In other embodiments, thestimulation agent is color. In other embodiments, the stimulation agentis ultrasound.

In some embodiments, the volume within the treatment enclosure (which isa sealed container in some embodiments) is in the range of 10 L to 200 Land the amount of pesticidal or pest control active composition used isin the range of 10 mL and 200 mL. In some embodiments, for example wherethe treatment enclosure is a shipping container, the treatment enclosurehas a volume in the range of 300,000 to 1,000,000 L, including any valuetherebetween. In some embodiments, the amount of pesticidal or pestcontrol active composition used is in the range of 10 mL to 100 mL per100 L of volume of the treatment enclosure. In one example embodiment, atreatment enclosure having a volume in the range of 100 L to 1200 L (forexample, a sufficiently large volume to accommodate a king sizemattress) is provided, and between about 100 mL to 1 L of pesticidal orpest control active composition is provided on a pre-dosed substrate, orsplit among a plurality of pre-dosed substrates, for insertion into thetreatment enclosure.

In some methods, the vapor concentration within the treatment enclosure(which is a sealed container in some embodiments), expressed as thepercent of the amount of pesticidal or pest control active compositionevaporated relative to the total volume of the container, is greaterthan 0.01%. In some methods, the vapor concentration within the sealedcontainer, expressed as the amount of pesticidal or pest control activecomposition applied relative to the total volume of the container, is inthe range of 0.01% to 0.2%. In some embodiments in which it is desiredto control an undesirable arthropod pest while not harming a beneficialarthropod species, the vapor concentration within the sealed container,expressed as the amount of pesticidal or pest control active compositionapplied relative to the total volume of the container, is in the rangeof 0.01% to 0.15%.

Some embodiments of the present invention can be used to control peststhat are arthropods, including insects and arachnids, and/or otherpests. Some embodiments of the present invention can be used to controlsucking and biting pests, including bed bugs, mites, ticks, fleas, ants,lice, mosquitoes and cockroaches. Exemplary results are presented inthis specification demonstrating the control of a number of arthropodpests using vapors of a pesticidal or pest control active composition,including bed bugs, varroa mites, bees, cockroaches, ants, granaryweevils, beetles and earwigs. Based on the similarity of terrestrialarthropods, including insects, with respect to organism size, cellularrespiration, and other morphological respiratory structures, it can besoundly predicted that pesticidal or pest control active compositionsand devices as described herein can be used to control other terrestrialarthropod pests, including subterranean arthropod pests.

Some embodiments can be used to control pests by killing the pests,repelling the pests, preventing or reducing feeding, preventing orreducing oviposition, preventing or reducing eclosion of their eggs, orthe like. Some embodiments exhibit effective pesticidal or pest controlactive activity as a vapor. Some embodiments provide methods of killingor controlling pests comprising moistening or otherwise impregnating asubstrate with the composition and placing the material in the vicinityof the pests such that they are exposed to the vapors of the compositionas they are released from the substrate.

Some embodiments of the present invention provide pesticidal or pestcontrol active compositions comprising at least one pesticidal naturaloil or other pesticidal natural extract, and optionally at least onesolvent. In some such embodiments, the at least one solvent may compriseone or more of a polar or non-polar aromatic solvent, an aryl ketone,aryl-aryl ketone, an aryl-alkyl ketone, an aryl-alkyl ketone, an arylalcohol, an aryl-aryl alcohol, an aryl-alkyl alcohol, an aryl aldehyde,an aryl ester, an aryl carboxylic acid, an aryl ether, or combinationsthereof, for example. In some further embodiments, the pesticidal orpest control active composition may comprise at least one pesticidalnatural oil selected from the list comprising: neem oil, karanja oil,clove oil, peppermint oil, mint oil, cinnamon oil, thyme oil, oreganooil, geranium oil, lime oil, lavender oil, anise oil, eugenol, garlicoil and/or components, derivatives and/or extracts therefrom, or anycombination thereof. In further exemplary such embodiments, thepesticidal or pest control active composition may comprise at least oneextract or active component of neem oil or karanja oil, such as but notlimited to: azadirachtin, azadiradione, azadirone, nimbin, nimbidin,salannin, deacetylsalannin, salannol, maliantriol, gedunin, karanjin,pongamol, or derivatives thereof, for example. In some embodiments, thepesticidal or pest control active composition may comprise at least oneof neem oil or an extract or active component thereof, and a polararomatic solvent comprising one or more of a phenone such as but notlimited to 4′-methylacetophenone, 2′,4′-dimethylacetophenone,3′,4′-dimethylacetophenone, acetophenone, propiophenone,4′-methylpropiophenone, butyrophenone, isobutyrophenone, valerophenone,hexanophenone, 4′-hydroxyacetophenone, 2′-hydroxyacetophenone,cyclohexyl phenyl ketone, or 2,2′-4,4′-tetrahydroxybenzophenone, andoptionally further in combination with any suitable diluent. In someembodiments, the diluent may comprise an organic or inorganic solvent.Commonly used organic liquid diluents include, but are not limited to,ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, benzene, butanol, 1-propanol, hexanol, otheralcohols, glycerol, glycerides, lactic acid or dimethyl ether. Commonlyused liquid inorganic diluents include, but are not limited to, water,ammonia, or sulphur dioxide.

Some embodiments can be used to control pests by killing the pests,preventing or reducing feeding, preventing or reducing oviposition,preventing or reducing eclosion of their eggs, or the like. Someembodiments exhibit effective knockdown pesticidal or pest controlactive activity, effective residual pesticidal or pest control activeactivity and/or effective pesticidal or pest control active activity asa vapor. Some embodiments provide methods of killing or controllingpests comprising applying a pesticidal or pest control activecomposition so that pests or their eggs may contact or otherwise beexposed to vapor of the composition. In some embodiments, pests arekilled by exposure to vapors released from a substrate that has beenmoistened or otherwise impregnated with a pesticidal or pest controlactive composition.

Some embodiments of the present invention pertain to compositions thatcan be used to control a variety of pests. Some embodiments contain arepellent or attractant to ‘push’ or ‘pull’ the pest to direct them to atreatment area or to otherwise influence pest behavior to effect bettertreatment. In some such embodiments, the pesticidal or pest controlactive composition may comprise one or more pest signaling chemical suchas a pheromone, semiochemical, attractant, repellent, or other pestbehavioural or signaling active, for example. Some embodiments of thepresent invention can be used to control arthropods, including mites,and/or other pests. Some embodiments of the present invention can beused to selectively control a parasitic pest infecting a beneficialhost. For example, some embodiments of the present invention can be usedto control varroa mites within honey bee colonies, differentiallykilling mites more readily than bees.

Some embodiments of the invention pertain to methods for the control ofpests such as mites. In some embodiments, the pests are differentiallycontrolled relative to a beneficial species, i.e. a greater proportionof the pests are killed or otherwise harmed than are members of thebeneficial species. In some embodiments, vapors of a pesticidal or pestcontrol active composition are used to control pests such as mites. Someembodiments include the use of a device or structure that allows thecontrolled release of pesticidal or pest control active vapors. Someembodiments contain a repellent or attractant to influence pest movementas well as a pesticide. Some embodiments include a vapor dosageindicator. Some embodiments allow honey bee brood frames to be placed toallow the circulation of treated air.

Some embodiments of the present invention can be used to selectivelycontrol a parasitic pest infecting a beneficial host. Some embodimentsexhibit effective pesticidal or pest control active activity against atarget pest species while not significantly harming a similarly exposedbeneficial insect species. Some embodiments contain a repellent orattractant to ‘push’ or ‘pull’ the pest from hard to treat areas anddirect them to a treatment area or to otherwise influence pest behaviorto effect better treatment. Some embodiments can be used to controlpests including arthropods such as mites. Some embodiments can be usedto control varroa mites within honey bee colonies, differentiallykilling the mites at a much greater percentage (i.e. with a much higherefficacy) than the bees (i.e. killing a high percentage of mites andonly a small percentage or none of the bees).

In some embodiments, a pesticidal or pest control active composition isprovided that can selectively control an undesirable pest while causinglittle or no harm to a beneficial species. In some embodiments, both theundesirable pest and the beneficial species are exposed to thepesticidal or pest control active composition. In some embodiments, boththe undesirable pest and the beneficial species are arthropods. In someembodiments, the undesirable pest is an arachnid that is a member of theSubclass Acari. In some embodiments, the beneficial species is an insectthat is a member of the Family Apidae. In some embodiments, theundesirable pest is a mite. In some embodiments, the beneficial speciesis a bee or other pollinating insect. In some embodiments, theundesirable pest is a Varroa mite. In some embodiments, the beneficialspecies is a honey bee. In some embodiments, the undesirable pest has asmaller mass than the beneficial species.

Some embodiments include the use of a device or structure that allowsthe controlled release of pesticidal or pest control active vapors. Someembodiments contain a repellent or attractant to influence pest movementas well as a pesticide. Some embodiments include a vapor dosageindicator. Some embodiments can be used to control pests includingarthropods such as mites. Some embodiments can be used to control varroamites within honey bee colonies, differentially killing the mites at amuch greater percentage than the bees. In some embodiments, a pesticidalor pest control active composition as defined herein is applied inside ahoney bee colony to selectively control an undesirable pest therein, forexample varroa mites, without significantly harming the honey beecolony. Some embodiments allow honey bee brood frames to be placed toallow the circulation of treated air. In some embodiments aircirculation is optimized for a brood nest temperature of betweenapproximately 10° C. to 35° C., including any value therebetween, e.g.12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30 or 32° C.

In some example embodiments where the pests to be treated are varroamites and it is desired to control the varroa mites while notsignificantly adversely affecting a beneficial species, e.g. honey bees,any of the devices, methods or compositions described above are used tointroduce pesticidal or pest control active vapors within a hivecontaining honey bees. In some such embodiments, the treatment enclosureis a bee hive.

In some embodiments, the bee hive is a Langstroth, WBC (WilliamBroughton Carr), Long-box, Dartington, Warré, Perone, Dadant, BritishNational, or Commercial type of hive. In some embodiments, the hive is anucleus colony box. In some embodiments, the bee hive has any number orarrangement of brood chambers or honey supers. In some embodiments, thebee hive has a plurality of brood chambers and/or honey supers containedtherein. In some embodiments, the brood chambers and/or honey supers arearranged in any suitable arrangement. In some embodiments, for exampleas illustrated in FIG. 15, the bee hive has two vertically stacked broodchambers and one vertically stacked honey super.

In some embodiments, the bee hive provides a treatment enclosure that ispermeable to pesticidal or pest control active vapors. In someembodiments, the pesticidal or pest control active vapors can escapethrough openings in the bee hive (for example, the entrances of thehive, the bottom of the hive, and air gaps between chambers). In someembodiments, some or all of the openings are partially or fully sealedto restrict the escape of pesticidal or pest control active vapors fromthe hive. In some embodiments, such sealing is achieved by tying,taping, stapling, heat-sealing, gluing, plugging, capping, lidding,coating, or otherwise fully or partially closing the openings. In someembodiments, the bottom of the hive is fully or partially sealed byaffixing a board or other generally planar object over the bottom (or aportion of the bottom) of the hive.

In some embodiments, the presence of wood, wax, honey and/or otherstructures within a hive decreases the concentration of pesticidal orpest control active vapors within the hive, as compared with a hive thatdoes not include the presence of such structures. Without being bound bytheory, in some embodiments, the presence of wood, wax, honey and/orother structures within a hive provides a protective effect, that helpsto prevent the honey bees from being harmed and/or killed by thepesticidal or pest control active vapor while the pesticidal or pestcontrol active vapor retains its efficacy against a target pest such asvarroa mites.

Some exemplary embodiments of the present invention are furtherdescribed with reference to the examples below, which are intended to beillustrative and non-limiting. Embodiments of the present invention arenot limited to the particular pesticidal or pest control activecompositions or concentrations described in the examples below. Inaddition to the particular concentrations set forth below, other broadranges of concentrations of ingredients are believed to be effective aswell. For example, embodiments of the present invention includepesticidal or pest control active compositions comprising neem in therange of 0.2 to 40 percent by weight. Other embodiments of the presentinvention include pesticidal or pest control active compositionscomprising acetophenone in the range of 10 to 99.8 percent by weight.Embodiments of the present invention are also not limited tocompositions comprising ethoxylated castor oil, isopropyl alcohol, wateror any other particular surfactant, carrier, emulsifier, diluent,fragrance or other additive. Any suitable surfactant, carrier,emulsifier, diluent, fragrance or other additive could be used inalternative embodiments.

EXAMPLES Example 1.0 Efficacy of Volatile Pesticidal or Pest ControlActive Solutions Applied in an Enclosed Treatment Enclosure Example 1.1Description of Compositions and Substrates Used

The following examples utilize three pesticidal or pest control activecompositions referred to as ‘Solution A’, ‘Solution B’, and ‘SolutionC’. ‘Solution A’ contained 5.5% cold pressed neem oil by weight, 18.25%acetophenone by weight, and 1.25% ethoxylated castor oil by weight andused water as a diluent (75% by weight). ‘Solution B’ contained 5.5%cold pressed neem oil by weight, 18.25% acetophenone by weight, and1.25% ethoxylated castor oil by weight and used isopropyl alcohol (IPA)as a diluent (75% by weight). ‘Solution C’ contained 5.5% cold pressedneem oil by weight, 18.25% acetophenone by weight, 1.25% ethoxylatedcastor oil by weight, and 1% fragrance by weight with isopropyl alcohol(IPA) used as a diluent (74% by weight).

All experiments were conducted at a temperature of 21±2° C. unlessotherwise indicated. Without being bound by theory, changes intemperature may affect the release of vapor from the pesticidal or pestcontrol active composition, so lower concentrations may be effective athigher temperatures, and higher concentrations may be required at lowerambient temperatures. Based on experiments conducted by the inventors,the compositions tested in these examples maintain efficacy attemperatures of 15° C. or higher, and can reasonably be expected toremain effective at lower temperatures, although higher treatmentconcentrations may be required at lower temperatures.

A variety of different substrates were tested for their ability torelease pesticidal or pest control active vapors. Characterization ofthe pore size of some of the texted substrates was performed bymeasuring the pore diameter of 10-20 pores per substrate using a lightmicroscope.

The laboratory mat used in some experiments is made from flattenedcotton batting, and is an example of a non-woven naturally occurringpolymer that is derived from plants. Cotton is a cellulose substrate.The pore size of exemplary laboratory mat was measured to range betweenabout 100-500 μm, with an average pore size of 260 μm. Total padthickness was approximately 3 mm.

Commercially available cellulose pads known as Zap pads from Paper PakIndustries (product code Z-21001) were used in some experiments. Thesesubstrates have twelve layers of non-woven cellulose pressed togetherinto a high-crepe pad open on four sides with a thick plastic backerpad, and are an example of a non-woven, naturally occurring polymer ofplant origin. The pore size of exemplary pads was measured to rangebetween about 50-100 μm, with an average pore size of 100 μm. The totalpad thickness was approximately 2.2 mm.

Filter paper used as a substrate in some experiments was a single layerof pressed cellulose, and is an example of a non-woven naturallyoccurring polymer providing a cellulose substrate. The pore size ofexemplary filter papers was measured to range between 60-1200 μm, withan average pore size of 396 μm. The total thickness of the substrate wasapproximately 0.2 mm.

Cotton cloth used as a substrate in some experiments is an example ofwoven fibers of a naturally occurring polymer, namely cotton, which is aform of cellulose. The pore size of exemplary cloth was measured torange between 20-100 μm, with an average pore size of approximately 33μm.

Example 1.2 Efficacy of Vapors Against Bed Bugs in Petri Dish

Previous laboratory studies have demonstrated that adult bed bugsconsistently exhibit 100% mortality within 24 hours when placed incontact with Solution A-treated filter papers within a sealed Petridish. This study was designed to determine if Solution A vapors cancause bed bug mortality.

Solution A formulation (1.39% v/v) was applied evenly to each 9 cmdiameter filter paper using a micro-applicator, and allowed to dry for 4hours. 1 ml of Solution A liquid was applied inside a 72 ml Petri dishas a treatment enclosure, to yield a percentage concentration ofpesticide of 1.39% (v/v, calculated as the volume of pesticide relativeto the volume of the Petri dish that provided the treatment enclosure).A negative control paper was treated with water but was not exposed toSolution A. The untreated paper was placed on the bottom of a Petri dishin contact with bed bugs, and sealed with a lid (negative control). Thetreated paper was suspended from the top of a Petri dish out of reach ofbed bugs, and sealed with a lid. Each Petri dish and paper was exposedto ten adult bed bugs (approximately half male and half female)immediately after the 4-hour drying period. The outside circumference ofthe Petri dishes was sealed with Parafilm™.

Bed bugs were observed for signs of toxicity, mortality and ovipositionat 1, 2, 4, 6, and 24 hours after bed bugs were introduced to filterpapers, then daily for 14 days. Bed bugs that were exposed to 1.39% v/vSolution A-treated paper, but prevented from contacting the paper,exhibited 100% mortality within 24 hours, indicating that toxic vaporsemitted by Solution A can cause bed bug mortality, and that directcontact with treated surfaces are not necessary to induce mortality.This result is unexpected because typically pesticidal or pest controlactive natural oils such as neem oil are effective only as contactkillers (i.e. actual contact is required for pesticidal or pest controlactive activity).

Example 1.3 Efficacy of Vapors Against Bed Bugs Eggs in Petri Dish

This study was designed to determine whether vapors of a pesticidal orpest control active composition comprising neem oil and acetophenonewould be effective against bed bug eggs and to assess the time periodthat bed bug eggs must be exposed to vapors before 100% efficacy isachieved.

Groups of five healthy bed bug eggs (each 2-day old) were each adheredto 9 cm diameter Petri dishes using a small drop of honey. Filter paperswere treated with 260 ft²/gal (1.39% v/v, i.e. 1 mL of Solution A in a72 mL Petri dish, which provided a treatment enclosure) of Solution A.Filter paper is an example of a naturally occurring non-woven polymerthat is an example of a cellulose substrate. A single treated filterpaper was adhered to the roof of each egg-infested dish eitherimmediately after dosing (0 hour dry time) or for 1, 5, 15, 30, 60minutes, 4 hours, or 24 hours. Eggs were prevented from physicallycontacting treated filter papers, but each egg-infested dish was sealedwith parafilm to ensure that treatment vapors permeated the dish. Oneegg infested dish served as a negative control and therefore was notexposed to Solution A vapors. Egg mortality was observed and recordeddaily for 14 days (confirmation observations were performed for 20days), until all eggs had eclosed or died.

As shown in FIG. 17, bed bug eggs exposed to 1.39% v/v Solution A vaporsfor 1 minute or 5 minutes exhibited 40% and 60% mortality, respectively.Eggs that were exposed to 1.39% v/v Solution A vapors for 15, 30 or 60minutes, 4 hours, or 24 hours, exhibited 100% mortality. These resultssuggest that within confined spaces treated with 260 ft²/gal (1.39% v/v)Solution A, bed bug eggs can be controlled with Solution A vapors, anddo not require direct contact with Solution A. These results alsosuggest that bed bug eggs should be exposed to vapors for at least 15minutes at the tested concentration for maximum efficacy.

FIG. 17 shows percent mortality of bed bug eggs exposed to vapors fromfilter paper treated with 260 ft²/gal (1.39% (v/v)) Solution A (0 hourdry time) for 1, 5, 15, 30, 60 minutes, 4 hours, or 24 hours. Controleggs (untreated) were not exposed to Solution A vapors.

Example 1.4 Efficacy of Vapors Against Bed Bug Eggs Under Layers ofUpholstery

This study was designed to test the efficacy of Solution A against bedbug eggs in environments where eggs are typically difficult to treat(such as under fabrics, carpet, etc.). Bed bug eggs were adhered tofilter paper in a Petri dish and covered with either 1, 2, or 3 piecesof upholstery fabric (each 9 cm diameter, 1.5 mm thickness). Thetop-most piece of fabric was sprayed with 400 ft²/gal Solution A (=0.8%v/v of Solution A (0.64 mL) relative to the volume of the Petri dish (72mL)), and the Petri dish was covered with a nylon mesh (open-air) or aplastic lid (closed-dish), and eclosion was observed for 20 days. In thecase where the Petri dish is covered with a nylon mesh, the void-spaceis effectively closed by the upper-most layer of upholstery but therewill inevitably be some leakage of vapor, thus lowering the vaporconcentration slightly. In other words, the nylon mesh covered dishprovides a partially permeable treatment enclosure. Two egg-infestedpieces of paper were left untreated to serve as negative controls. Deadeggs were defined as those which failed to eclose after the 20 dayobservation period, and appeared dried or swollen when observedmicroscopically.

Eggs exhibited 100% mortality when covered with 1, 2, or 3 pieces ofupholstery in open-air and closed-air Petri dishes. These resultsindicate that in an open- or closed-air environment (i.e. in a sealed orpermeable treatment enclosure), multiple layers of upholstery do notprotect bed bug eggs from 0.8% v/v Solution A vapors. Without beingbound by theory, it is hypothesized that the pesticidal or pest controlactive vapors can pass through the layers of upholstery to some extent,and further the fabric may trap the vapors within the Petri dish andenhance vapor efficacy.

Example 1.5

Efficacy of Vapors Released from Various Substrates in Sealed Containers

This series of studies was designed to assess the bio-efficacy ofvarious substrates impregnated with a pesticidal or pest control activecomposition comprising neem oil and acetophenone when placed insidesealed plastic bags or containers with various objects infested with bedbugs and eggs (such as books and electronics). Substrates testedincluded paper towels, cloth rags, pine wood shavings, and polyestercloth. Release of pesticidal or pest control active vapors from alginategels was also examined. These studies specifically examined the efficacyof the vapor-phase of the pesticidal or pest control active composition,as the bed bugs and eggs were not sprayed directly or exposed to directcontact with the treated substrate.

The purpose of using an impregnated substrate or gel is to create avapor-releasing vehicle that could be used to treat items that would bedifficult to treat otherwise. Alternatively, a device for releasingpesticidal or pest control active vapors from a liquid comprising apesticidal or pest control active composition can be provided to supplythe vapors. For example, vapors are ideal for treating items such aselectronics, art-work and books that can be damaged by directapplication of a liquid spray. Vapors also have the advantage ofpenetrating into small and difficult to reach areas, such as cracks,crevices and cavities where insects may hide. The impregnated substratewould be placed into a sealed bag or container along with the sensitiveitems that require treatment.

The table below summarizes the results of multiple studies conducted totest varying substrates and gels, compositions, containers and contents.

TABLE 1 Summary of Container Studies using various Substrates ContainerLength of Pesticidal Dose Volume Container study % Study Substrate/GelComposition (mL) (L) contents (days) Mortality 1 Alginate (10 g)Solution A 30 17.3 Empty 2 100 2 Alginate (20 g) Solution A 30 94.4 4100 40 94.4 Hard 90 50 94.4 plastic 100 60 94.4 clutter 100 3 Polyestercloth Solution A 72 94.4 Books 5 60 4 Pine wood Solution B 50 85 Books17 h 100 shavings 5 Cotton rag Solution B 36 85 Books 17 h 100 6 Cottonrag in Solution B 34 85 Books 1 100 plastic housing 85 Books 3 90 7Paper towel/ Solution C 42 85 Books 5 100 cotton rag 8 Paper towel/Solution C 36 85 Electronics 5 100 cotton rag 9 Cotton Rag Solution C 3oz. 85 Clothing 5 100 (90 mL) 10 Cotton Rag Solution C 1 oz. 85 Shoes 5100 (30 mL)

Efficacy was tested against bed bugs and (in studies #7, 8 and 10) theireggs. In all studies, bed bugs were observed for signs of toxicity,mortality, and oviposition after the indicated time period had elapsed.Dead insects were defined as those which were unable to move after beingstimulated. All studies included negative controls which exhibited 0%mortality.

Alginate is a natural gelling agent. Alginate molds in studies #1 and 2of Table 1 were created by adding different volumes of Solution A(0.032-0.173% v/v, calculated based on the applied volume of pesticidalor pest control active solution as indicated in Table 1 above and thefinal volume of the sealed container that provided the treatmentenclosure) and water to alginate powder to achieve differentconcentrations. The liquid alginate solution was mixed in a glass beakerbefore transferring to an aluminum foil mold. Each mold was allowed onehour to set. Each treatment had ten bed bugs placed inside a 50 mLplastic tube containing a folded piece of filter paper and enclosed witha mesh top (allowing vapors to enter but preventing bed bugs fromescaping). Each tube was placed in a plastic terrarium (approximately 3cubic feet in volume).

In study #1, the terrarium was otherwise empty. In study #2, theterrarium was filled with various forms of plastic clutter. The alginatesubstrate was placed in the terrarium at opposite ends from the tube ofbed bugs and the terrarium was closed with a fitted lid and placedinside a large non-porous plastic garbage bag that provided a treatmentenclosure.

In study #3 of Table 1 (=0.076% v/v), a polyester cloth was used asubstrate and the terrarium was filled with assorted books. Polyestercloth is an example of a woven synthetic polymer substrate. Theterrarium was closed with a fitted lid and placed inside a largenon-porous plastic garbage bag that provided a treatment enclosure.

In study #4, pine wood shavings dosed in Solution B (=0.059% v/v,calculated as volume of Solution B relative to the volume of the plasticbag that provided the treatment enclosure) were used as a substrate.Pine wood shavings are an example of a naturally occurring form ofcellulose substrate, and are a non-woven polymer. The shavings werehoused in a plastic container having multiple slits to allow the releaseof vapors. This housing was placed in a 30″ by 38″ clear plastic bag asa treatment enclosure filled with assorted books and a mesh-enclosedcontainer of bed bugs. 100% mortality was observed after 17 hours.

In study #5 of Table 1, a cotton cloth dosed with 36 ml of Solution B(=0.04% v/v, calculated as the amount of solution B applied relative tothe calculated final volume of the clear plastic bag that provided thetreatment enclosure) was used as a substrate. Cotton is a naturallyoccurring polymer that is a form of cellulose substrate. The cottoncloth is a woven substrate. Bed bugs were contained in a Mason jar lidover which a nylon stocking was stretched taut and tied. This was thenplaced at the bottom of a 30″ by 38″ clear plastic bag and surrounded byten randomly selected books. The treated cotton cloth contained in aslitted plastic housing was placed in the bag and 100% mortality wasobserved after 17 hours.

In study #6 of Table 1, plastic bags were filled with 35 assorted books.In one bag, a container enclosed with a stretched nylon stocking holding10 bed bugs was placed amongst the books. In another bag, 10 bed bugswere infested directly on a book that was enclosed with a stretchednylon stocking. A cotton cloth was impregnated with Solution B (=0.04%v/v, calculated based on the volume of Solution B applied and thecalculated volume of the plastic bag that provided the treatmentenclosure) and placed into a custom made plastic housing having multipleslits to allow evaporating vapors to be released. Cotton is a naturallyoccurring polymer that is a form of cellulose substrate. The cottoncloth is an example of a woven polymer. The purpose of the housing wasto prevent direct contact between the moistened cloth and the objects tobe treated. The cloth in its plastic housing was then placed in eachbag, and 100% mortality was observed in less than 24 hours for bed bugsin the nylon enclosed container, while the nylon enclosed book achieved90% mortality in 3 days.

In study #7 of Table 1, books were infested with adult bed bugs andtheir eggs and placed inside large plastic storage bags. In one bag acotton rag substrate was tested, and in another bag a paper towelsubstrate was tested. Cotton and paper towel are both examples ofnaturally occurring polymers that are different forms of cellulosesubstrates. The cotton cloth is a woven polymer and the paper towel is anon-woven polymer. Books were infested by encasing them in a stretchednylon stocking along with 10 live bed bugs and a piece of filter paperto which eggs were affixed. The infested books were then placed inside a31″×42″ clear plastic bag as a treatment enclosure along with 35 otherbooks of random shapes and sizes. The cotton rag or paper towels ({tildeover ( )}7 sheets) were treated with 35 g of Solution B (=0.049% v/v,calculated as the volume of Solution B applied relative to thecalculated volume of the plastic bag that provided the treatmentenclosure) and placed on top of the books and the bag was sealed for 5days. 100% adult and egg mortality was observed for both the paper toweland cotton rag substrates.

In study #8 of Table 1, a computer was infested with adult bed bugs andtheir eggs and placed in a bag with a keyboard and desktop telephone.Both cotton rag and paper towel substrates were tested. Cotton and paperare both examples of naturally occurring polymers that are differenttypes of cellulose substrates. The cotton rag is a woven polymer and thepaper towel is a non-woven polymer. Bed bugs were placed in a housingconsisting of nylon stocking stretched taut over the ring of a Mason jarlid or a piece of cardboard of a similar size. A similar housingcontaining filter paper mounted with eggs was placed within a Mason jarlid ring inside a stretched nylon stocking. The computer housing wasremoved and the bed bug and egg samples were placed within the computer.The cotton rag or paper towel was treated with Solution B (=0.042% v/v,calculated as volume of Solution B applied relative to the calculatedvolume of the bag that provided the treatment enclosure) and placed ontop of the electronics and the bag that provided the treatment enclosurewas sealed for 5 days. Both paper towel and cotton rag had 100%mortality on both adult bed bugs and their eggs.

In study #9 of Table 1, articles of clothing were infested with bed bugsand place in a sealed bag. Three cotton rags were treated each with oneounce (30 mL) of Solution B. Cotton is a naturally occurring polymerthat is an example of a cellulose substrate, and the cotton rags are anexample of a woven polymer. One rag was placed at the bottom, middle andtop of the clothing in the bag that provided a treatment enclosure(concentration of Solution B=0.105% v/v, calculated as the volume ofSolution B applied relative to the calculated volume of the bag thatprovided the treatment enclosure). Seven articles of clothing were placein the bag in total, four of which were infested with bed bugs. 100%mortality was observed after 5 days.

In study #10 of Table 1, ten pairs of footwear were placed in a bag,five of which were infested with adult bed bugs and eggs. A cotton ragwas treated with one ounce (30 mL) of Solution B and placed on top ofthe footwear inside the sealed plastic bag as a treatment enclosure(concentration of Solution B=0.035% v/v, calculated as the volume ofSolution B applied relative to the calculated volume of the bag thatprovided the treatment enclosure). Cotton is a naturally occurringpolymer that is an example of a cellulose substrate, and the cotton ragis an example of a woven polymer. 100% mortality was observed after 5days.

The pesticide concentration to which the bed bugs and eggs were exposedin these studies may be estimated based on the volume of the treatmentenclosure and the initial dose of pesticidal or pest control activesolution. In Table 2 below, vapor concentrations for each of the tenstudies above are expressed as the percent of the amount of pesticidalor pest control active composition relative to the total volume of thecontainer. Note that for the studies using plastic bags, the volume ofspace inside the sealed bags was estimated to be approximately 3 cubicfeet (approximately 85 L) based on the proportions of the bag, althoughan exact volume was not measured. Also note that the volumes shown inthe table below do not take into account the volume of the contents ofthe container, and hence reflect the entire space enclosed within thecontainer rather than the actual volume of remaining air space (i.e.void space).

TABLE 2 Summary of Vapor Concentrations Pesticide ConcentrationContainer (% pesticidal Study Container Container Volume Dosesolution/treatment # Type Contents (L) (mL) volume) 1 Terrarium Empty17.3 30 0.173% 2 Terrarium Hard 94.4 30 0.032% plastic 94.4 40 0.042%clutter 94.4 50 0.053% 94.4 60 0.064% 3 Terrarium Books 94.4 72 0.076% 4Plastic Bag Books 85 50 0.059% 5 Plastic Bag Books 85 36 0.042% 6Plastic Bag Books 85 34 0.040% Books 85 34 0.040% 7 Plastic Bag Books 8542 0.049% 8 Plastic Bag Electronics 85 36 0.042% 9 Plastic Bag Clothing85 89 0.105% 10 Plastic Bag Shoes 85 30 0.035%

Example 1.6 Dose Response of Solution C Vapors on Bed Bug-Infested BooksSealed Inside Bags

Groups of 10 adult bed bugs and 5 bed bug eggs were each sealed into gaspermeable, nylon mesh cages and placed inside or amongst items inside aplastic garbage bag (42 gallon, approximately 158 L) as a treatmentenclosure. Each garbage bag (n=5 bags/treatment) contained bed bugadults and eggs, along with 50 assorted soft and hard cover books. Eachbug infested bag (filled with materials) received 1-2 perforatedpolyethylene housings containing absorbent cellulose substrate that wasdosed with 2 ounces (60 mL) of Solution C, or absorbent cellulosesubstrate (Zap pad) dosed with 2 ounces (60 mL) of water (untreatedcontrol). The absorbent substrate and housing was placed on top of thematerials within each bag, out of physical contact with the bed bugs oreggs. The bags were then sealed and 0.037-0.074% (v/v) Solution C(calculated as the volume of Solution C applied relative to the volumeof the garbage bag that provided the treatment enclosure) was allowed toevaporate over 5 days, at 20-22° C. The bags were then opened and adultbed bug mortality was observed. The mass of Solution C remaining on theabsorbent substrate (compared to its initial mass) was also measured.Eclosion of treated bed bug eggs was observed daily for 14 days afterremoval from the bag, or until control eggs had all hatched.

Vapors emitted from 4 ounces (120 mL) (0.074% v/v) of Solution C killed100% of adult bed bugs and bed bug eggs in bags filled with books,vapors emitted from 2 ounces (60 mL) (0.038% v/v) of Solution C killed83% of adults and 76% of eggs in bags filled with books over five days(FIG. 18). These results indicate that bed bug and egg mortalityincreases with the concentration of evaporated Solution C vapors insidethe bag that provides the treatment enclosure.

FIG. 18 shows the percent mortality of bed bug adults and eggs afterexposure to Solution C vapors inside sealed 158 L (42 gallon) garbagebags filled with hard-cover and soft-cover books (mass-remaining ofSolution C after 5 day exposure is also shown). Bugs and eggs wereexposed for 5 days to vapors emitted from 2 ounces (60 mL) (0.037% v/v)or 4 ounces (120 mL) (0.074% v/v) of liquid Solution C applied toabsorbent cellulose pads (Zap pads) as a substrate (10 adults and 5 eggsper bag; n=5 bags per treatment, 3-4 bags per control). Lines above barsindicate standard error of adult and egg mortality; asterisks above barsindicate treatment mortality that is significantly higher than controlmortality (Chi-square test; *p<0.05; 1 d.f.).

Example 1.7

Efficacy of Solution C Vapors on Bed Bugs Sealed Inside Bags withDifferent Types of Material

Groups of 10 adult bed bugs and 5 bed bug eggs were each sealed into gaspermeable, nylon mesh cages and placed inside or amongst items inside a158 L (42 gallon) plastic garbage bag as a treatment enclosure. Eachgarbage bag (n=5 bags/treatment) contained bed bug adults and eggs mixedwith the following materials: a) 50 assorted soft and hard cover books;b) one large electronic device (printer, computer, DVD or VHS player)and a mix of telephones, other small electronic items as well as DVD's,CD's and VHS tapes; c) eight pairs of shoes and three handbags; d) 20items of clothing comprised of various different fabrics. Eachbug-infested bag (filled with materials) received 1 perforatedpolyethylene housing containing absorbent cellulose substrate that wasdosed with 2 ounces (60 mL) of Solution C(=0.037% v/v, calculated as theamount of Solution C applied relative to the 158 L (42 gallon) volume ofthe garbage bag that provided the treatment enclosure), or absorbentcellulose substrate (Zap pad) dosed with 2 ounces (60 mL) of water(untreated control). The absorbent substrate and housing was placed ontop of the materials within each bag, out of contact with the bed bugsor eggs. The bags were then sealed and Solution C vapor was allowed toevaporate over 5 days, at 20-22° C. The bags were then opened and adultbed bug mortality was observed. The mass of Solution C remaining on theabsorbent substrate (compared to its initial mass) was also measured.Eclosion of treated bed bug eggs was observed daily for 14 days afterremoval from the bag, or until control eggs had all hatched.

Vapors emitted from 2 ounces (60 mL) of Solution C(=0.037% v/v) killed100% of adult bed bugs and bed bug eggs in bags filled with electronicsor footwear and handbags, and killed 83% of adults and 76% of eggsinside bags filled with books (FIG. 19). The presence of books, footwearor handbags inside the sealed bag resulted in a lower mass of Solution Cremaining on absorbent cellulose pads (Zap pads) compared to the massremaining when less absorbent materials such as electronics were placedinside the bag. This increased mass loss may derive from the books,footwear or handbag's ability to absorb Solution C vapors from the voidspace. The resulting lowered concentration of Solution C vapors in thevoid space results in lower adult and egg mortality when vapor-absorbingitems are placed inside the bag. In comparison, non-absorbent items suchas electronics do not lower the vapor concentration (and resultingefficacy) as readily.

FIG. 19 shows the percent mortality of bed bug adults and eggs afterexposure to 0.037% v/v Solution C vapors inside sealed 158 L (42 gallon)garbage bags filled with hard-cover and soft-cover books, footwear &handbags, or electronics (mass-remaining of Solution C after 5 dayexposure is also shown). Bugs and eggs were exposed for 5 days to vaporsemitted from 2 ounces (60 mL) of liquid Solution C applied to absorbentcellulose pads (Zap pads) (0.037% v/v; 10 adults and 5 eggs per bag; n=5bags per treatment, 3-4 bags per control). Lines above and below barsindicate standard error of adult and egg mortality; Asterisks above barsindicate treatment mortality that is significantly higher than controlmortality (Chi-square test; *p<0.05; 1 d.f. (degree of freedom)).

Example 1.8 Efficacy of Solution C Vapors on a Bed Bug-Infested SuitInside a Sealed Suit Bag

Six groups of 5 healthy adult bed bugs were each encased in agas-permeable nylon mesh-covered ring which were each placed in adifferent location in and around a man's suit (at the top of the suitbag, under pants on the hanger, outside of the breast pocket, inside thejacket's internal pocket, outside the lower pocket, and at the bottom ofsuit bag. Thirty ml (=0.043% v/v) or 60 ml (=0.086% v/v) of Solution C(calculated as volume of Solution C applied relative to the suit bagthat provided the treatment enclosure) was poured onto an absorbentpolymer pad (15×6 inches²) (38×15 cm²) adhered to a liquid-impermeablepolypropylene backing (the absorbent polymer pad was cotton, a naturallyoccurring polymer that is a form of cellulose, that is a portion ofabsorbent laboratory spill matting, which is a non-woven substrate). Theabsorbent pad was draped over a wire coat hanger (backing-side-down),over the shoulders of the suit jacket, out of physical contact with bedbugs (FIG. 20). A sealable, gas-impervious polymer suit bag having avolume of approximately 70 L was then placed over the suit to containthe vapors and suit within for 24 hours. An additional group of 5 adultbugs remained untreated, within a gas-permeable cage placed outside ofthe sealed suit bag. FIG. 20 is a photograph illustrating how theabsorbent pad was draped over the suit (left image) and how the suit andpad were sealed inside a suit bag (right image).

0.043%-0.086% v/v Solution C vapors emitted from an absorbent substrateinside a sealed suit-bag successfully killed 100% of adult bed bugs (allsignificantly higher than untreated control mortality) in all locationswithin the sealed suit bag except for those located at the very top ofthe bag (FIG. 21). Solution C vapors are denser than air, therefore,those bugs at the extreme top of the bag were likely exposed to a lowerconcentration of vapors than bugs at lower locations, where vaporsshould tend to accumulate. Active movement of vapors within the bag,changing the orientation of the bag (e.g. laying the bag flat), using alower density formulation, or longer vapor-exposure time would likelykill 100% of all life stages of insects and other arthropods, even inthe uppermost locations.

FIG. 21 shows the percent mortality of adult bed bugs exposed to vaporsemitted from 30 ml (=0.043% v/v) or 60 ml (=0.086% v/v) of liquidSolution C for 24 hours inside a sealed suit-bag. The sealed suit bagcontained a man's suit jacket and pants, along with gas-permeable cagescontaining adult bed bugs which were placed in various locations withinthe suit bag (n=5 bugs/treatment location). An additional group of 5adult bugs remained untreated, within a gas-permeable cage placedoutside of the sealed suit bag. Asterisks above bars indicate treatmentmortality that is significantly higher than control mortality(Chi-square test; *p<0.05; 1 d.f.).

Example 1.9

Efficacy of Solution C Vapor on a Bed Bug-Infested Suitcase Sealedwithin a Plastic Bag

Suitcases (7.8 ft²) were each infested with 20 adult bed bugs and 10 bedbug eggs (10 adults and 5 eggs placed inside the suitcase, and 10 adultsand 5 eggs placed on the outer wall and pockets of the suitcase). Bedbug-infested suitcases (unzipped) were each placed inside a sealed 158 L(42 gallon) garbage bag as a treatment enclosure, along with 2 absorbentcellulose pads (Zap pads), placed out of physical contact with bed bugsinside the suitcase; one pad was dosed with 30 ml of Solution C andplaced on the inside of the suitcase (on the bottom when the suitcase isstanding upright), and a second pad was dosed with 30 ml of Solution Cand placed on top of the upright suitcase (=0.037% v/v applied per bag,calculated as the volume of Solution C applied relative to the volume ofthe garbage bag that provided the treatment enclosure). Three bedbug-infested suitcases were not exposed directly or indirectly to anytreatment, to act as untreated controls. Adult bed bugs were observedfor mortality 5 days after initial treatment to Solution C liquid orvapors. Eclosion of treated bed bug eggs was observed daily for 14 daysafter removal from the bag, or until control eggs had all hatched.Results are summarized in Table 3.

After 5 days exposure to 0.037% v/v Solution C vapor, all bed bug adultson the inside and outside of the suitcases were killed (compared to10.6% average mortality of untreated control adults). Similarly, after 5days exposure to Solution C vapors, all bed bug eggs on the outside ofthe suitcases were killed (compared to 7% mortality on the outside ofuntreated control suitcases). Egg mortality inside suitcases could notbe determined. It was observed that bed bug adults had laid eggs on thecontrol suitcases but not on the treatment suitcases, suggestingSolution C liquid or vapors prevent oviposition by causing rapid deathof the adult bed bugs. These results indicate that 0.037% v/v Solution Cvapors are capable of killing bed bug eggs laid on suitcases and bykilling adults inside and outside of suitcases, oviposition can beprevented.

% Adult Mortality Inside and % Eclosion on Outside of the Outside of theSuitcase Suitcase Suitcase 1 (untreated) 12% 100%  2 (untreated) 15%100%  3 (untreated)  5% 80%  1 (treated) 100%  0% 2 (treated) 100%  0% 3(treated)  93%** 0% **One bed bug was moribund and died one week afterinitial observations

Example 1.10 Efficacy of Solution C Vapor Against Various Insect PestsInside a Sealed Plastic Bag

Groups of 5 healthy, adult German cockroaches (Blattella germanica),pavement ants (Tetramorium caespitum), granary weevils (Sitophilusgranarius), Dermestid beetle larvae (Dermestes maculatus) or earwigs(Forficula auricularia) were each caged inside a gas-permeablenylon-mesh cage. Each cage was placed inside an empty, transparentplastic garbage bag (158 L, 3 mil thickness) as a treatment enclosurealong with 1 polyethylene housing containing a pair of stacked absorbentcellulose pads (Zap pads, each 15.5×11 cm) dosed with 2 ounces (60 mL)of Solution C (=0.037% v/v, calculated as volume of Solution C appliedrelative to the volume of the treatment enclosure), or with 2 ounces (60mL) of water (to serve as an untreated control). Solution C treated padswere placed out of physical contact with insects inside each bag. Allinsects were exposed to vapors inside sealed bags for 5 days, duringwhich time they were observed for mortality. Four replications (5insects of each species per bag) were performed for each treatment.

Insects were observed for signs of toxicity and mortality at 0, 1, 2, 3,4 and 24 hours after initial exposure to treatment vapors, then dailyfor 5 days thereafter. Dead insects were defined as those which did notmove and were unable to move when the bag was gently agitated. Thepercent mortality observed after 24 hour exposure to treatment vaporswas compared to mortality of untreated control insects using Chi-squareanalysis.

All insect species exhibited 100% mortality after 24 hours of exposureto vapors emitted by 60 ml (2 ounces) of Solution C(=0.037% v/v) insidean empty sealed plastic bag. Pavement ants were the most susceptible tovapors, exhibiting 100% mortality 1 hour after initial exposure tovapors; German cockroaches and earwigs exhibited 100% mortality 3 hoursafter initial exposure to vapors, and granary weevils and Dermestidbeetle larvae exhibited 100% mortality 24 hours after initial exposureto vapors. Mortality of each insect species was significantly higherthan control mortality (FIG. 22). These results indicate that Solution Cvapors are capable of killing multiple insect species from a variety oftaxonomic orders. Based on the similarity of other arthropods to insectswith respect to organism size, cellular respiration and othermorphological respiratory structures, it can be soundly predicted thatSolution C vapors would similarly be capable of killing other species ofterrestrial arthropods, including subterranean arthropods.

FIG. 22 shows the mortality of German cockroaches, Dermestid beetlelarvae, pavement ants, granary weevils and earwigs after exposure tovapors emitted by 60 ml Solution C(=0.038% v/v) inside a sealed plasticbag (n=20 insects of each species per treatment, 5 insects per bag).Mortality observations were made at 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 24 hours afterinitial exposure to vapors, then daily for 5 days. Lines above and belowdata points indicate standard error mortality and asterisks indicateinsect mortality after 24 hours vapor-exposure that is significantlyhigher than control mortality of the same species. (Chi-square test;*p<0.01; 1 d.f.).

Example 1.11 Measure of Vapor Concentration, Release-Rate andCorresponding Bed Bug Mortality for Volatile Components of Solution C

0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, or 4 ounces (7.5, 15, 30, 60, or 120 mL) (=0.0046%,0.009%, 0.019%, 0.037% and 0.07% v/v relative to treatment enclosurevolume) of Solution C was applied to a single- or stacked pair ofabsorbent cellulose pads (Zap pads, each 15.5×11 cm), contained within aperforated polyethylene housing. Each absorbent pad and housing was thensealed inside a 158 L (42 gallon) plastic garbage bag as a treatmentenclosure that remained empty, or was filled with 50 assorted soft andhard cover books. Pads dosed with treatment liquid were placed on top ofthe books in book-filled bags.

Dosed pads were allowed to evaporate inside sealed bags at 19-21° C. for5 days. The head space from the inflated bags was sampled at 0.5, 1,1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4 and 24 hours after Solution C absorbent pads wereinitially placed into each bag. Sampling was performed by piercing thebottom of the bag and drawing 100 μL of head space gas using a gastightsyringe. The piercing was then re-sealed with tape. Each head-spacevapor sample was injected into a gas chromatograph equipped with a flameionization detector (GC-FID: HP 6850; column: Varian CP-Wax 52CB. 24m×320 μm×1.20 μm; injector temperature: 250° C.; detector temperature:250° C.; oven temperature program: 60° C.>250° C. at 20° C./min.>hold 1minute.). Head space samples were analyzed for isopropyl alcohol vaporconcentration as determined by peak areas. Three replicates wereperformed for each Solution C concentration tested.

Isopropyl alcohol was selected for gas-chromatographic detection becauseit is the most abundant compound in the tested Solution C, and istherefore easier to observe via gas chromatography. The concentration ofisopropyl alcohol is correlated to the volume of liquid formulationplaced inside the treatment enclosure, and the isopropyl alcoholconcentration, and the concentration of other formulation vapors, aregreatly influenced by the presence of absorptive materials within thecontainer. Thus, monitoring isopropyl alcohol concentration allows anassessment of the impact of the presence of absorptive materials withinthe treatment enclosure on the pesticidal or pest control active vaporconcentration therein.

In parallel, groups of 5 adult bed bugs and 5 bed bug eggs (caged insidegas-permeable nylon mesh) were each sealed into a 158 L (42 gallon)plastic bag as a treatment enclosure along with either 0, 0.25, 0.5, 1,2, or 4 ounces (0, 7.5, 15, 30, 60, 120 mL) of Solution C(=0.0%,0.0046%, 0.009%, 0.019%, 0.037% and 0.07% v/v) applied to absorbentcellulose pads (Zap pads contained with a perforated polyethylenehousing). Pads were placed out of physical contact with adult bugs oreggs. Three treatment replicates were performed for each volume ofSolution C that was tested. After 5 days exposure to Solution C, ahead-space sample was drawn from each bag and analyzed for isopropylvapor concentration (method described above). At the same time, adultbed bugs and eggs were removed from each bag and assessed for mortality.Adult mortality was defined as bugs which did not move and which did notcling to the mesh cage after light agitation; egg mortality was definedas eggs that did not eclose 14 days after initial placement within thebag. Eclosion and survival of treated bed bugs and eggs was compared tothat of untreated controls using Chi-square analysis.

FIG. 23 shows the relative isopropyl alcohol vapor concentration (asdetermined by peak area) when 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, or 4 ounces (7.5, 15, 30,60 or 120 mL) (=0.0046%, 0.009%, 0.019%, 0.037% and 0.07% v/v) ofSolution C is poured onto an absorbent cellulose pad and sealed insidean empty 158 L (42 gallon) plastic bag (n=3 bags per volume of SolutionC tested). Lines above and below data points indicate standard deviationpeak area. FIG. 24 shows relative isopropyl alcohol vapor concentration(as determined by peak area) when 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, or 4 ounces (7.5, 15,30, 60 or 120 mL) (=0.0046%, 0.009%, 0.019%, 0.037% and 0.07% v/v) ofSolution C is poured onto an absorbent cellulose pad and sealed inside a158 L (42 gallon) plastic bag filled with books (n=3 bags per volume ofSolution C tested). Lines above and below data points indicate standarddeviation peak area. FIG. 25 shows mean mortality of adult bed bugs andbed bug eggs after 5-day exposure to various vapor concentrationsemitted by 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, or 4 ounces (7.5, 15, 30, 60 or 120 mL)(=0.0046%, 0.009%, 0.019%, 0.037% and 0.07% v/v) of Solution C inside asealed 158 L (42 gallon) plastic bag (n=5 bugs per bag; 3 bags perconcentration tested). Solution C vapor concentrations are displayed asrelative isopropyl alcohol vapor concentration (determined bygas-chromatographic peak areas analyzed from samples of each bag'shead-space). Lines above and below data points indicate standard errormortality of adult bugs and eggs.

Evaporation of Solution C inside empty bags resulted in isopropylalcohol vapor concentration increasing with the volume of Solution Capplied to absorbent cellulose pads. At each volume tested, after 4hours of evaporation within empty bags, the isopropyl alcohol vaporconcentration begins to stabilize as the void-space becomes saturated(FIG. 23). When plastic bags contain books, the maximum concentration ofisopropyl alcohol vapor that is detected after evaporation from SolutionC dosed pads is significantly lower than that observed inside empty bags(FIGS. 23 and 24). Within book-filled bags, the isopropyl alcoholconcentration is maximal after 0.5-4 hours of evaporation, then rapidlydecreases and begins to stabilize at 24 hours, remaining stable for thenext 4 days (FIG. 24). This rapid decrease in vapor concentration after24 hours is not observed in empty bags treated with the same volume ofSolution C, and the resulting isopropyl alcohol vapor concentrationwithin empty bags remains at a level that is 3-20 times higher than thevapor concentration within book-filled bags. Without being bound bytheory, the lowered maximum concentration and rapid decrease ofisopropyl alcohol vapor is believed to be caused by the absorbentcellulosic nature of the books within the bag. As isopropyl alcoholevaporates from the pad, the vapor is quickly absorbed by the books andtherefore, cannot reach the same maximum concentration observed insideempty bags treated with the same volume of Solution C. Once maximalevaporation has occurred (between 0.5-4 hours), the books continue toabsorb vapor (causing a rapid lowering of vapor concentration) until thebooks become saturated (causing a stable, but lower vapor concentrationwithin the bag). This vapor absorbing phenomenon is likely to occur whenbags are filled with other absorbent substrates such as clothing.

Bed bug adults exhibited 100% mortality after 5-day exposure to arelative isopropyl alcohol peak area of 743 emitted from Solution Cvapors. Bed bug eggs exhibited 100% mortality after 5-day exposure to arelative isopropyl alcohol peak area of 459. Lower relative peak areasresulted in lower adult bed bug and egg mortality, indicating that athreshold vapor concentration must be maintained to achieve 100%mortality (FIG. 25). These results also indicate that bed bug eggs areaffected by lower concentrations of Solution C vapor than are bed bugadults, and emphasize the importance of exposing adults and eggs to anappropriate volume of pesticidal or pest control active composition foran extended period, taking into account the absorptive nature of thematerials within the sealed container.

Example 1.12 Efficacy of Solution C Vapors Against GranaryWeevil-Infested Grain Inside a Sealed Bag

Groups of 20 healthy adult granary weevils, Sitophilus granarius, werecaged above or within the middle of a 100 g column of grain (7.5 cm tallgrain column inside a 10 cm×4.5 cm diameter jar) by placing agas-permeable, nylon mesh barrier within the grain column that filledthe jar. Grain and weevils were then sealed into 158 L (42 gallon)plastic bags as a treatment enclosure along with 0, 0.025, 0.05, 0.1,0.25, 0.5, or 1 ounce (0, 0.75, 1.5, 3, 7.5, 15, or 30 mL) of Solution Cliquid dosed onto an absorbent cellulosic pad (Zap pad, =0.0%, 0.0005%,0.001%, 0.002%, 0.0046%, 0.009% and 0.019% v/v). Weevils and grain jarswere each placed inside an empty, transparent plastic garbage bag (158L, 3 mil thickness) along with 1 polyethylene housing containing a pairof stacked absorbent cellulose pads (each 15.5×11 cm) dosed with 0.025,0.05, 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, or 1 ounce (0.75, 1.5, 3, 7.5, 15 or 30 mL) ofSolution C liquid, or with 1 ounce (30 mL) of water (to serve as anuntreated control). Solution C treated pads were placed out of physicalcontact with insects and grain inside each bag. All insects were exposedto vapors inside sealed bags for 3 days, after which time weevils wereobserved for mortality. Four replications (20 weevils per jar) wereperformed for each treatment volume. After 3 days of exposure toSolution C vapors, weevils were removed from bags and grain, andobserved for signs of mortality. Dead weevils were defined as thosewhich did not move and were unable to move when gently prodded withforceps. The percent mortality observed after 3 day exposure to eachtreatment volume was recorded and graphed to determine the minimumeffective dose achieved in this system.

Results are shown in FIG. 26, which shows mean mortality of granaryweevils, Sitophilus granarius, after exposure to vapors emitted by 0,0.025, 0.05, 0.075, 0.1, or 0.25 ounces (0, 0.75, 1.5, 2.25, 3, or 7.5mL) (0.0%, 0.0005%, 0.001%, 0.0015%, 0.002% or 0.0046% v/v). Solution Cinside a sealed plastic bag having a volume of 158 L (n=20 weevils perjar, 4 jars per treatment volume). Mortality observations were madeafter 3 days exposure to vapors. Lines above and below data pointsindicate standard error mortality and asterisks indicate insectmortality after 24 hour vapor-exposure that is significantly higher thancontrol mortality of the same species. (Chi-square test; *p<0.01; 1d.f.).

Weevils on top of the grain surface exhibited 45%, 30% and 100%mortality when exposed to vapors emitted from 0.025, 0.05, and 0.1 ounce(0.75, 1.5 and 3 mL) of Solution C, respectively. Weevils within themiddle of the grain column exhibited 15%, 68% and 100% mortality whenexposed to vapors emitted from 0.025, 0.05, and 0.1 ounce (0.75, 1.5 and3 mL) of Solution C, respectively. All weevils exposed to 0.1 ounce (3mL) or higher volumes of Solution C exhibited 100% mortality regardlessof position within the grain column (FIG. 26). These results indicatethat Solution C vapors are capable of entering the void-spaces of agrain column, and can kill weevils residing within those void-spaces.

Example 1.13

Mass-Loss and Relative Isopropyl Alcohol Vapor Concentrations Releasedfrom 3 Solution C-Treated Substrates

Polyester sponges, cellulose fiber pads and wax pads (n=3 per substrate)were each loaded with 50 grams of Solution C liquid (=0.04% v/v relativeto the volume of the treatment enclosure) and allowed to evaporateinside a sealed 158 L (42 gallon) bag. Polyester sponges are an exampleof a synthetic non-woven polymer. The cellulose fiber pads were Zappads. The wax pads are an example of a wax substrate, and were made frombeeswax, which is a wax derived from an animal. Twenty four hours aftereach substrate was sealed into a bag, a sample of the bag's head-spacevolatiles were drawn and analyzed for isopropyl alcohol vaporconcentration, and mass-loss from each substrate (due to evaporation ofSolution C) was recorded.

After 24 hours, sponge, cellulose-pad and wax substrates exhibited aloss of 18%, 20% and 3% of Solution C due to evaporation, respectively.Each substrate also emitted a relative isopropyl peak area at or above1860 inside each bag. These results indicate that Solution C evaporatesfaster from sponge and cellulose fibers, than from wax, but within thesealed system sufficiently lethal vapor concentration accumulatedregardless of the substrate used (Table 4).

TABLE 4 Mean mass-loss and relative isopropyl alcohol peak area emittedfrom sponge, cellulose-pad or wax substrates dosed with 50 g of SolutionC placed inside a sealed bag for 24 hours. Mean relative Mean % massloss (g) IPA peak area Substrate after 24 hours after 24 hours Sponge17.8% (±0.5%)  2835 (+1131) Cellulose 19.5% (±2.5%) 1867 (+127) Pad Wax 2.5% (±0.7%) 3061 (+627)

This example demonstrates that sponges and wax can be used as substratesfor releasing pesticidal or pest control active vapors in someembodiments of the present invention. Cellulose-based substrates wereselected for further testing in the examples described herein becausethe density of the tested sponge substrate was lower, and therefore alarger volume of sponge would be required to absorb a particular dose ofpesticidal or pest control active composition; however, other types ofsponges may be more absorbent than the tested polyester sponge.

Example 2.0

Selective Efficacy of Pesticidal or pest control active Vapor on PestsVersus Beneficial Insects

Example 2.1

Efficacy of Pesticidal or pest control active Vapors Against VarroaMites on Honey Bees

This study was designed to determine whether vapors of a pesticidal orpest control active composition comprising neem oil and acetophenonewould be effective against varroa mites (Varroa destructor) infested onhoney bees (Apis mellifera), and if so, what doses of the pesticidal orpest control active composition would be most effective indifferentially killing Varroa mites more readily than honey bees.

‘Solution A’ containing 5.5% cold pressed neem oil by weight, 18.25%acetophenone by weight, and 1.25% ethoxylated castor oil by weight wasprepared using water as an emulsifying agent (75% by weight). Live honeybees infested with varroa mites were housed within mesh-coveredcylinders. The cylinders, containing bees and mites, were placed insidelidded plastic bins (50400 cm³) as a treatment enclosure to approximatethe dimensions of a commercial bee hive. Filter papers dosed with either0.5, 2.0, 5.0, or 10.0 mL of Solution A (=0.001%, 0.004%, 0.01% and0.02% v/v relative to the volume of the lidded plastic bin that provideda treatment enclosure) were placed within each of the bins with the beesand mites and left to evaporate in ambient conditions for 16 hours (suchthat the bees and mites inside the mesh cylinders were exposed to vaporsof Solution A over this period of time). Filter papers are an example ofa naturally occurring polymer, and an example of a non-woven cellulosesubstrate. Because the bees and mites were confined to the meshcylinders, they were prevented from having any direct contact with thedosed filter papers throughout the experiment and were only exposed toSolution A via its vapor phase. A negative control bin containing beesand mites was not exposed to any vapors for the duration of theexperiment. After 16 hours of exposure, bees and mites were removed fromthe bins and each was observed microscopically for mortality and signsof toxicity. Experiments were conducted indoors at ambient temperaturesof approximately 20-22° C.

FIG. 27 shows mortality of Varroa mites and honey bees exposed to 0,0.5, 2, 5, or 10 mL of Solution A evaporating from filter papers insidean empty 50400 cm³ bin for 16 hours. As shown in FIG. 27, after 16 hoursof exposure to vapors of Solution A, varroa mites exhibited highermortality than bees at all doses that were tested. Respectively, mitemortality and bee mortality were 67% and 0% when 2 ml of Solution A wasapplied, 100% and 47% with 5 ml of Solution A, and 100% and 87% at 10 mlof Solution A. These volumes correspond to a pesticide concentration of0.001%, 0.004%, 0.01% and 0.02% v/v, respectively. The bins used astreatment enclosures in this study had tight-fitting lids and wereconsidered air tight. Thus, the bins provided a sealed treatmentenclosure.

This example demonstrates the selective activity of Solution A, and inparticular the pesticidal or pest control active activity of the vaporsof Solution A as it evaporates from a moistened substrate, to control anundesirable pest arthropod species while not harming a beneficialarthropod species. Although the conditions of this study do not exactlysimulate those in a commercial hive, this preliminary experiment hasalso demonstrated that mites are more susceptible to Solution A vaporsthan are honey bees, suggesting that Solution A vapors can be useful forselectively controlling Varroa mites within bee hives.

Example 2.2 Bee Frame Effect on Varroa Mite & Bee Mortality

This study was designed to determine if the presence of bee frames(containing wax, honey and brood) increases or decreases the efficacy ofvapors of the pesticidal or pest control active composition of Example2.1 against varroa mites (varroa destructor) infested on honey bees(apis mellifera). Without being bound by theory, it is believed thatwood, honey and/or wax within a bee hive may absorb pesticidal or pestcontrol active vapors, which reduces the effective pesticidal or pestcontrol active vapor concentration within a bee hive that provides atreatment enclosure. Experiments were conducted indoors at an ambienttemperature of approximately 20-22° C.

‘Solution A’ containing 5.5% cold pressed neem oil by weight, 18.25%acetophenone by weight, and 1.25% ethoxylated castor oil by weight wasprepared using water as an emulsifying agent (75% by weight). Live honeybees infested with varroa mites were housed within mesh-coveredcylinders. The cylinders, containing bees and mites, were placed insidelidded plastic bins (50400 cm³) as a treatment enclosure to approximatethe dimensions of a commercial bee hive. One bin remained empty otherthan the cylinder containing the mite-infested bees for the duration ofthe experiment, while a second bin contained 3 bee frames (filled withwax, honey and capped brood). Each of these two bins also received afilter paper dosed with 1 mL of Solution A (0.002% v/v) which was placedabove the bee frames (or on a pedestal inside the empty bin) and left toevaporate inside each bin with the bees and mites for 18 hours (suchthat the bees and mites inside the mesh cylinders were exposed to vaporsof Solution A over this period of time). Filter paper is an example of anaturally occurring polymer, and a form of non-woven cellulosesubstrate.

Because the bees and mites were confined to the mesh cylinders, theywere prevented from having any direct contact with the dosed filterpapers throughout the experiment and were only exposed to Solution A viaits vapor phase. A third bin containing bees infested with mites servedas a negative control and was not exposed to any Solution A vapors forthe duration of the experiment. After 18 hours of exposure, bees andmites were removed from the bins and each was observed microscopicallyfor mortality and signs of toxicity.

FIG. 28 shows mortality of varroa mites and honey bees exposed to 1 mLof Solution A evaporating from filter papers inside a 50400 cm³ bin;either empty or containing three bee frames laden with wax, honey andbrood larvae. The estimated volume of the three frames laden with honey,larvae and wax is 40972 cm³. Bees that were infested with mites prior tothe start of the assay were exposed to Solution A vapors for 18 hours.

As shown in FIG. 28, after 18 hours exposure to vapors emitted from 1 mLof Solution A (0.002% v/v of Solution A applied relative to the volumeof the treatment enclosure), bee and varroa mite mortality were 7% and80%, respectively, in bins that contained frames with wax, honey andbrood. Comparatively, 100% bee and 100% mite mortality was observedinside empty bins that did not contain wax, honey or brood. Theseresults indicate that the presence of frames with wax, honey and broodgreatly decreases the potency of Solution A vapors against bees(possibly due to absorption of vapors by one or more of the materials),and slightly decreases its potency against mites. Therefore, 1 mL ormore of Solution A (0.002% v/v Solution A applied versus the treatmentvolume) may be a safe dose to apply to an actual hive despite high beemortality in empty bins treated with 1 mL (0.002% v/v) of Solution A.

The bees in Example 2.2 were collected from the same colony as the beesin Example 2.1. However, the bees in Example 2.2 were collected duringthe fall, when honey and pollen sources are scarce, while the bees inExample 2.1 were collected in the late spring/early summer when the beeshad access to an abundance of pollen and honey. Without being bound bytheory, it is believed that the greater sensitivity of bees topesticidal or pest control active vapors observed in Example 2.2 ascompared with Example 1.1 relates to bee health and bee-nutrient accessat the time of year that the bees were collected, and thus the applieddose of pesticidal or pest control active vapour may need to be adjustedto take into account the relative condition of a population of honeybees. However, at both times of collection, the bees were lesssusceptible to pesticidal or pest control active vapors than were theVarroa mites. Bees in Example 2.3 were tested in mid-spring, and bees inExample 2.4. were tested in summer.

Example 2.3 Field Trials and Assessment of Dose Response

Based on laboratory results and preliminary field trials, 16 bee hives(each comprised of 2 stacked deep brood boxes), containing live honeybees (Apis mellifera), were chosen to receive a treatment of 0 ml, 50ml, 100 ml or 150 ml of Solution B. After subtracting the volume takenup by hive frames and wax inside two stacked brood boxes (estimated tobe 81944 cm³), the calculated airspace (i.e. void volume) inside eachhive is 24584 cm³ (out of a total possible volume of 106528 cm³ for the2 stacked brood boxes). The volume of the treatment enclosure is takenas the total volume of 106528 cm³, and the concentration of pesticidalor pest control active composition (i.e. Solution B) applied in eachexperiment was respectively 0%, 0.047%, 0.094% or 0.141% v/v, based onthe total volume of the hive that provided the treatment enclosure.

Experiments were conducted outdoors at an average ambient temperature inthe range of 12-15° C. Without being bound by theory, temperaturesinside a bee hive will generally be warmer than the outdoor ambienttemperature, because the bees form a tight cluster that vibrates toproduce heat. The temperature within the hive can vary depending on thelocation within the hive relative to this cluster. Thus, it is estimatedthat the temperature within the hive was in the range of about 12-30° C.

Solution B contained 5.5% cold-pressed Neem oil, 1.25% ethoxylatedcastor oil, 18.25% acetophenone and 75% isopropyl alcohol (allpercentages by weight). Each treatment was applied to two stacked cottonsquares (22 cm²) cut from absorbent laboratory mat (each cotton squarewas approximately 2 mm thick) and covered by a fine aluminum mesh (25cm²) which was stapled around its periphery to prevent bees fromaccessing the moistened cotton. Cotton is a naturally occurring polymer,and the cotton laboratory mat is an example of a non-woven cellulosesubstrate. An appropriate dose of treatment formulation was applied toeach cotton square, which was then immediately placed above the broodframes of a bee hive, and then covered by the hive's inner and outer lidto provide a treatment enclosure that is somewhat permeable topesticidal or pest control active vapors. Hives were treated when theambient temperature was 12° C., and before 9:00 am to ensure all beeswere present in the hive. Hives treated with 50 or 100 ml doses ofSolution B received a single stacked square placed centrally aboveframes, whereas hives treated with 150 ml Solution B formulationreceived two stacked squares placed side-by side above frames. Noattempt was made to close or reduce hive entrances during treatment butmite trap boards were fitted directly below the lower brood box justbefore the treatment was applied. The mite boards were left in place for2 weeks prior to treatment and for 2 weeks following treatment (withreplacement every 2 days) and mite drop onto boards was counted every 2days to determine natural mite mortality and mortality resulting fromtreatments. The Solution B-treated cotton squares were left in each hivefor 4 days, then were removed after it was determined the treatmentswere no longer increasing the mite-drop counts. Insertion of the miteboard restricted air flow through the bottom of the hives, althoughother openings such as hive entrances and air gaps were left open. Thus,the bee hives were partially sealed. The opening at the bottom of thehive was fully open (approximately 2 cm high and 20 cm wide). Air canalso flow through thin air gaps (typically less than about 0.5 mm) wherethe brood boxes and lid of the hive meet.

Mites within bee hives are located on the worker bees or within cappedbrood cells (mites within these cells emerge when bees emerge from thecells). Therefore, bee and capped brood cell populations were countedusing photographs taken of each frame within each hive, and mitepopulation in each hive was estimated based on mite numbers collectedfrom worker bees in each hive (n=500 bees total), from mite numberscollected from capped brood cells collected from each hive (n=500 cellstotal), and from the following formula:

$\begin{matrix}\frac{{mite}\mspace{14mu} {drop}}{\left( {{bees} \times {mites}_{p}} \right) + \left\lbrack {\left( {{cells} \times r_{emergence}} \right) \times {mites}_{c}} \right\rbrack} & (1)\end{matrix}$

where, mite drop=number of dead mites found on mite boards within 24hours; bees=observed number of bees per hive; mites_(p)=observed # ofphoretic mites/bee; cells=observed number of capped brood cells perhive; r_(emergence)=0.083−the calculated daily emergence rate of beesand mites per capped brood cell; mites estimated number of mites percapped brood cell as determined from samples.

FIG. 29 shows the one-month mortality of phoretic mites in hives treatedwith 0 ml, 50 ml, 100 ml or 150 ml of Solution B (0%, 0.047%, 0.094% or0.141% v/v, pre- and post-treatment mortality shown). Bee hive treatmentwith 0 ml Solution B (negative control) caused an average mite drop of55 mites/day (compared to 78 mites/day pre-treatment); 50 ml Solution Bcaused an average drop of 213 mites/day (compared to 41 mites/daypre-treatment); 100 ml Solution B caused a drop of 352 mites/day(compared to 55 mites/day pre-treatment); 150 ml of Solution B caused adrop of 801 mites/day (compared to 40 mites/day pre-treatment) (FIG.29).

From observed mite mortality and calculated bee and mite populations, itwas determined that 0 ml, 50 ml, 100 ml and 150 ml Solution B treatments(0%, 0.047%, 0.094% or 0.141% v/v) killed 10%, 39%, 69% and 100% ofphoretic mites, respectively within 48 hours (FIG. 30). However, mitesemerging from capped brood cells were not affected by the 0 ml, 50 mland 100 ml treatments, but the 150 ml treatment killed 12% of theemerging mites (FIG. 31). Without being bound by theory, it is believedthat newly emerged mites are not exposed to 0-100 ml treatments becausethose treatments evaporate before the new mites emerge from cells,whereas the 150 ml treatments remain long enough to affect some of theearly emerging mites.

Observations of worker bee populations before and after treatmentindicate that little to no worker bee death occurred as a result of anyof the treatments. Bee health was monitored for one month following theinitial treatments.

Example 2.4

Assessment of Varroa Mite Mortality and Bee Health after Exposure toSolution C or 65% Formic Acid

23 honey bee colonies (Apis mellifera) were assessed. Each hive wasinoculated with Varroa mites (Varroa destructor) by introducingVarroa-infested brood comb 3 months prior to testing. For 2 weeks priorto treatment, mite drop from each hive was counted every four days fromsticky boards placed below each hive.

Experiments were conducted outdoors at an average ambient temperature inthe range of 18-20° C. Without being bound by theory, temperaturesinside a bee hive will generally be warmer than the outdoor ambienttemperature, because the bees form a tight cluster that vibrates toproduce heat. The temperature within the hive can vary depending on thelocation within the hive relative to this cluster. Thus, it is estimatedthat the temperature within the hive was in the range of about 18-30° C.

16 hives received a treatment of 100 ml of water (negative control), 100ml Solution B (5.5% neem oil, 1.25% ethoxylated castor oil, 18.25%acetophenone, 75% isopropyl alcohol) (0.094% v/v), or 30 ml of 65%formic acid (positive control) (n=4 hives per treatment). Each treatmentwas applied to two stacked cotton pads (having an area of 22 cm²) cutfrom absorbent laboratory mat (each cotton pad was approximately 2 mmthick) and covered by a fine aluminum mesh (25 cm²) which was stapledaround its periphery to prevent bees from accessing the moistenedcotton. Cotton is a naturally occurring polymer, and the absorbentlaboratory mat is an example of a non-woven cellulose substrate. Anappropriate dose of treatment formulation was applied to each cottonpad, which was then immediately placed above the brood frames of thetop-most brood box (directly below the hive's inner lid) in each beehive, and then covered by the hive's inner and outer lid to provide atreatment enclosure. The ambient temperature outside the hive duringtreatments was 20° C. No attempt was made to close or reduce hiveentrances during treatment but sticky mite boards were fitted directlybelow the lower brood box just before the treatment was applied. Averageoutside temperatures ranged from 18-22° C. during the treatment andobservation period.

Mite boards were left in place for 5 weeks following treatment (withreplacement every 2 days) and mite drop onto boards was counted every 2days to determine natural mite mortality, treatment-mortality, andduration of treatment effect. The treated cotton pads were left in eachhive for 8 days, then were removed once it was determined that mitemortality had fallen to pre-treatment levels. Following removal oftreated cotton pads, an Amitraz clean-up treatment was added to eachhive by suspending 2 Apivar-strips (3.3% Amitraz) between frames withineach brood chamber for 21 days. Mite mortality on sticky boards fromeach hive was counted weekly for the duration of the Amitraz treatment.The purpose of the 21 day Amitraz clean-up treatment was to kill andmeasure the number of mites that were present during application ofvapor treatments but were not killed by vapor treatments.

The efficaciousness of vapor treatments against mites was determined bythe method of Melathopoulos et al. (2000). The proportion of miteskilled by each treatment (P_(varroa)) was measured by counting mite droponto sticky boards placed below each hive for 8 days following the vaportreatment, as compared to the total mite population (phoretic andbrood-bound mites) present within each hive. Total mite population wasmeasured by counting mortality of mites on sticky boards killed by vaportreatment (M_(treatment)) in addition to those killed by Amitrazclean-up treatment (M_(evaluation)). The clean-up treatment was intendedto kill any mites that may have survived the experimental vaportreatment, including those that emerged from brood-cells followingremoval of experimental vapor treatments.

$\begin{matrix}{P_{varroa} = \frac{M_{treatment}}{M_{treatment} + M_{evaluation}}} & (2)\end{matrix}$

Bee health was measured for 1 month following initial treatments. Workerbee health was measured by photographing worker behavior on hiveexteriors each day following treatment, and by counting worker mortalityon drop sheets placed in front of hive entrances. One week followingtreatment, brood mortality was assessed by removing a single frame fromeach hive, and brood was manually uncapped in order to observe movementof pupae and assess mortality. Brood emergence was measured byphotographing a small patch of newly-capped brood (100-200, 10 day-oldbrood) within each hive prior to treatment. Photographed brood were thenremoved from each hive 8 days after treatment and were incubated inlaboratory rearing chambers for an additional 14 days. All worker beesand bees newly emerged from brood cells were removed daily to preventbees from uncapping brood on frames. Brood patches were thenphotographed a second time and numbers of uncapped cells (indicatingbrood emergence) were counted. Each treated hive was also inspectedweekly for evidence of oviposition and queen mortality.

FIG. 32 shows average daily Varroa mite drop observed from sticky boardsfor 1 week prior to vapor treatments, 8 days during vapor treatment, andfor 3 weeks following Amitraz clean-up treatment. Mites were counted andmite-boards were replaced in each hive every 2-5 days. Treatmentsconsisted of placing saturated cotton pads above the frames of thetop-most brood box (immediately below the hive's inner lid; two broodchambers and 1 honey super, stacked) for 8 days (n=4 hives pertreatment). Lines above and below data points indicate standard errormite of drop at each observation time. FIG. 33 shows Varroa mitemortality (expressed as % of total mite load) observed from stickyboards during vapor treatment, and for 3 weeks following Amitrazclean-up treatment. Mites were counted and mite-boards were replaced ineach hive every 2-5 days (n=4 hives per treatment).

FIG. 34 shows Varroa mite mortality for various vapor treatments after 8days of exposure. The left set of bars show the proportion of miteskilled by each vapor treatment (M_(treatment)) compared to the totalmite load of each hive (all phoretic mites and brood-cell bound mites);the right set of bars show proportion of total mite load not killed byexperimental vapor treatments (i.e. all remaining mites killed by theAmitraz clean-up treatment; M_(evaluation)). The proportion of miteskilled by treatments (P_(varroa)) was calculated using the method ofMelathopoulos et al. (2000):P_(varroa)=M_(treeatment)/(M_(treatment)M_(evaluation)). Lines abovebars indicate standard error of mite mortality of each treatment. Barswith different letters indicate treatments with significantly differentmite mortality (t-test, p<0.05, n=4 hives per treatment) during vaportreatment, or within those same hives after Amitraz clean-up treatment.FIG. 35 shows the percent mortality of manually uncapped bee pupae 1week after treatment with vapors from 0.094% v/v Solution B, 65% formicacid, or H₂O. Lines above bars indicate standard error of % mortality;asterisks above bars indicate treatment mortality that is significantlyhigher than control mortality (Chi square test; p<0.05; 1 d.f.;n=200-230 brood per treatment). FIG. 36 shows the percent emergence of10 day-old, capped bee pupae 1 month after treatment with vapors from0.094% v/v Solution B, 65% formic acid, or H₂O. Lines above barsindicate standard error of % mortality; asterisks above bars indicatetreatment mortality that is significantly higher than control mortality(Chi square test; *p<0.05; 1 d.f.; n=250-500 brood per treatment).

Solution B vapors killed 40% of the total mite-population (11314 mites)within treated hives; formic acid vapors killed 44% of the totalmite-population (11550 mites); H₂O vapors (negative control) also killed12% of the total mite population (8054 mites) within treated hives(FIGS. 32-34). These results indicate that vapors emitted by 100 ml(0.094% v/v) of Solution B and 30 ml 65% formic acid demonstrate similarefficacy against Varroa mites. After applying each vapor treatment,almost all mite mortality was observed within the first 48 hours, afterwhich time mortality fell to pre-treatment levels (FIG. 32), indicatingthat vapors were very effective at killing mites that were livingphoretically at the time of treatment, and that those vapors dissipatedwithin 48 hours. In addition, 29 days after the initial vaportreatments, the total population of mites surviving within Solution B—orformic acid-treated hives (as determined from the number of mites killedby Amitraz clean-up treatment) was significantly lower than the totalpopulation of mites surviving within H₂O-treated hives (FIGS. 33 and34), indicating that Solution B and formic acid treatments didsignificantly reduce Varroa populations over a longer period. Previoustests of vapor penetration into brood cells, as well as field trialsindicate that Solution B and formic acid vapors can kill mites withinbrood-cells if the vapor is highly concentrated. Unfortunately,increasing the vapor concentration of Solution B or formic acid riskskilling brood, workers and queen bees. A possible solution that couldincrease the effectiveness for these fast-evaporating vapors is toincorporate them into a sustained-release matrix, or into atimed-release device such as described herein that allows release ofperiodic, short bursts or sustained release of effective vaporconcentrations throughout the 21 day Varroa mite life cycle.

Within 30 minutes of applying treatments, 2 of the hives treated withSolution B exhibited heavy bearding and no bearding was observed in anyother hives. At 48 hours post-treatment one of the Solution B-treatedhives and 2 of the formic acid-treated hives exhibited mild bearding,which disappeared after 4 days. The proportion of brood survivingtreatment with Solution B, formic acid, and H₂O vapors was 96%, 98%, and100%, respectively (FIG. 35). Brood emergence was significantly lowerafter Solution B and formic acid treatments (76% and 72% emergence,respectively) compared to control emergence (87%) (FIG. 36). Weeklyobservations of hives indicated that oviposition was not affected by anyof the treatments, and that queen survival was 100% for all treatmentsin all hives except for hive #6 which had lost its queen in the weekpreceding treatment.

The results of this example indicate that vapors emitted by 100 ml(0.094% v/v) of Solution B or 30 ml of 65% formic acid did not harmqueens and did not kill a biologically significant number of brood.However, it should be noted that statistically, the 4% brood mortalitycaused by Solution B was significantly higher than 0% mortality incontrols (Chi square test; p<0.05) (brood mortality caused by Solution Band formic acid were not significantly different).

While a number of exemplary aspects and embodiments have been discussedabove, those of skill in the art will recognize certain modifications,permutations, additions and sub-combinations thereof. To the extent thatthey are not mutually exclusive, embodiments described above can becombined with one another to yield further embodiments of the invention.It is therefore intended that the following appended claims and claimshereafter introduced are not to be limited by the exemplary embodimentsset forth herein, but are to be given the broadest interpretationconsistent with the specification as a whole.

1. A device for releasing vapors of at least one of a pesticidal and apest control composition, the device comprising a substrate impregnatedwith the composition, an impermeable housing comprising a flexiblepillow packaged or envelope containing the substrate, wherein thehousing comprises one or more apertures adapted for releasing vaporsfrom the substrate, and additionally comprising a removable peel strip,said peel strip comprising a flexible vapor impermeable sheet materialremovably adhered to the housing to provide for controllable opening ofthe apertures to release said vapors by a user.
 2. The device accordingto claim 1 wherein said composition comprises neem oil and a polararomatic solvent.
 3. The device according to claim 1 wherein saidcomposition additionally comprises at least one diluent.
 4. The deviceaccording to claim 1 wherein said composition additionally comprises atleast one pest control active ingredient.
 5. The device according toclaim 2, wherein said polar aromatic solvent comprises a phenone.
 6. Thedevice according to claim 5, wherein said polar aromatic solventcomprises acetophenone.
 7. The device according to claim 1, wherein saidapertures comprise at least one regular pattern of apertures defining anopening or window in said housing adapted for release of said vapors. 8.A treatment enclosure for controlling at least one species of pestinfecting an article, the treatment enclosure comprising: a device forreleasing vapors of at least one of a pesticidal and a pest controlcomposition according to claim 1; and a structure for fully or partiallysealing the treatment enclosure, to contain pesticidal or pest controlvapors released by the device within the treatment enclosure.
 9. Thetreatment enclosure according to claim 8, wherein said compositioncomprises neem oil and a polar aromatic solvent.
 10. The treatmentenclosure according to claim 8 wherein said composition additionallycomprises at least one diluent.
 11. The treatment enclosure according toclaim 8 wherein said composition additionally comprises at least onepest control active ingredient.
 12. The treatment enclosure according toclaim 9, wherein said polar aromatic solvent comprises a phenone. 13.The treatment enclosure according to claim 9, wherein said polararomatic solvent comprises acetophenone.
 14. The treatment enclosureaccording to claim 8, wherein the structure comprises: an outer layerthat is impermeable or substantially impermeable to pesticidal vapors,wherein the outer layer comprises a plastic bag or a rigid containercomprising plastic, rubber, metal, wood, cardboard, expandedpolystyrene, or glass; and a resealable opening or cover for allowing auser to insert and remove infested articles from the treatmentenclosure.
 15. A method of controlling at least one pest, the methodcomprising: providing a treatment enclosure containing at least onearticle infested with at least one pest or their eggs, and at least onedevice for releasing vapors of at least one of a pesticidal and a pestcontrol composition according to claim 1; and releasing at least one ofpesticidal and pest control vapors from the at least one device withinthe treatment enclosure; and containing the vapors within the treatmentenclosure for a treatment period.
 16. The method according to claim 15,wherein the vapors comprise pesticidal vapors released from a pesticidalcomposition comprising neem oil, and a polar aromatic solvent.
 17. Themethod according to claim 16, wherein said composition additionallycomprises at least one diluent.
 18. The method according to claim 15,wherein said composition additionally comprises at least one pestcontrol active ingredient.
 19. The method according to claim 16, whereinsaid polar aromatic solvent comprises a phenone.
 20. The methodaccording to claim 16, wherein said polar aromatic solvent comprisesacetophenone.